In a momentous turn of events, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the influential yet polarizing former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, has officially become Thailand’s Prime Minister. Her appointment, endorsed by a royal decree on August 18, 2024, marks a significant chapter in Thailand’s political landscape, making her the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the nation’s highest office.
Paetongtarn’s rise to power follows the removal of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, by the Constitutional Court, which found him guilty of serious ethical violations. The decision to elevate Paetongtarn to the premiership was met with a mixture of hope and skepticism, as she steps into a role that both her father and aunt previously held, only to be ousted by military coups.
During a solemn ceremony at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters in Bangkok, Paetongtarn received her letter of appointment. The event was a family affair, with her father, Thaksin, by her side—an image that underscored the enduring influence of the Shinawatra dynasty in Thai politics. Despite his absence from formal politics, Thaksin remains a key figure in the party, guiding it from behind the scenes.
In her acceptance speech, Paetongtarn expressed gratitude to the king, the Thai people, and Parliament. She pledged to govern with an open mind and to make Thailand a place where its citizens can “dare to dream, dare to create, and dare to dictate their own future.” Her words resonated with many, reflecting a vision of progress and unity in a country long divided by political strife.
Paetongtarn’s ascension is not just a personal triumph but also a historic moment for Thailand. At 37, she is the country’s youngest Prime Minister and the second woman to hold the position, following in the footsteps of her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra. Her leadership will be closely watched, particularly as she navigates a coalition government that includes military parties responsible for the coups that deposed her family members.
The political significance of her appointment cannot be overstated. Paetongtarn’s rise to power comes at a time when Thailand is still grappling with the deep divisions that have marked its political landscape for nearly two decades. These divisions were exacerbated by the 2006 military coup that ousted her father, triggering years of conflict between Thaksin’s supporters and the conservative establishment.
Despite the challenges, Paetongtarn’s leadership offers a fresh perspective. Her government represents a delicate balance between the old guard and the new, with the Pheu Thai Party forming a coalition that includes former rivals—a move seen by many as a strategic compromise to prevent the more progressive Move Forward Party from gaining power.
Internationally, Paetongtarn’s appointment has already garnered attention. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated her on her election, expressing optimism about strengthening the ties between India and Thailand. His message reflects the importance of Thailand’s leadership on the global stage, particularly in its relationships with neighboring countries.
As Paetongtarn takes on the mantle of leadership, she inherits a complex legacy. Her father, who returned from exile last year, continues to cast a long shadow over Thai politics. His recent release from prison on a royal pardon has only added to the intrigue surrounding the Shinawatra family’s future role in the country. However, his ongoing legal challenges, including a defamation case involving the monarchy, serve as a reminder of the contentious nature of Thai politics.
Looking ahead, Paetongtarn’s government faces the daunting task of uniting a country still deeply divided along political lines. Her ability to lead will be tested by the need to reconcile the interests of her supporters with those of the conservative establishment. Yet, her vision of a more inclusive and forward-looking Thailand offers hope for a brighter future.
As Thailand embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Paetongtarn Shinawatra as she seeks to chart a course that honors her family’s legacy while forging a new path for the nation.