Shinawatra set to become Thailand's youngest prime minister, continuing family legacy

By Candice Kim Posted : August 16, 2024, 15:50 Updated : August 16, 2024, 15:50
Paetongtarn Shinawatra Pheu Thai Party head and PM candidate arrives at party HQ in Bangkok to watch parliamentary voting on August 16 2024 Yonhap
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Pheu Thai Party head and PM candidate, arrives at party headquarters in Bangkok to watch parliamentary voting on Aug. 16, 2024. Yonhap
SEOUL, August 16 (AJU PRESS) - Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, is set to become Thailand's youngest and second female prime minister, following her father Thaksin's political footsteps. After Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's court-ordered dismissal, Paetongtarn secured parliamentary support to take office. This marks another chapter in the Shinawatra family's significant role in Thai politics.

The daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn led the Pheu Thai party to a second-place finish in the 2023 election. Despite her lack of administrative experience, she now faces the challenge of leading a government coalition that includes military-backed parties.

Paetongtarn's rise comes amid Thailand's ongoing political divide between populist forces and the conservative-royalist establishment. Her father and aunt's governments were previously ousted by military coups, highlighting the persistent tensions in Thai politics.

As she steps into this high-pressure role, Paetongtarn is expected to rely heavily on her father's guidance. Her leadership will be closely scrutinized as she attempts to navigate the complex political landscape and push forward with her party's agenda to improve people's livelihoods.
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