Political newcomer Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of well-known political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, has been elected as Thailand’s youngest prime minister at the age of 37, following the dismissal of ally Srettha Thavisin. Paetongtarn faces numerous challenges as she takes office, including a struggling economy and declining popularity of her party, Pheu Thai. This comes as the Shinawatra family’s once dominant political presence in the country has faced setbacks, with the family’s first election defeat in over two decades last year. Paetongtarn, who has never held a government position, will be Thailand’s second female prime minister and the third Shinawatra family member to hold the top job.
The dismissal of Srettha Thavisin after less than a year in office highlights the potential challenges Paetongtarn may face, as Thailand has experienced political turmoil, including coups and court rulings disbanding parties and toppling governments. The Shinawatra family and their business allies have been at the center of this crisis, facing opposition from conservative forces and the military. The recent court decision to dissolve the Move Forward Party, the winner of the 2023 election, adds to the political uncertainty in the country.
The unexpected decision to have Paetongtarn become prime minister at a critical time has surprised many analysts, who had anticipated a delay in the Shinawatra dynasty’s return to power. However, with Thaksin’s return from self-exile in 2023 and the appointment of Srettha as premier, it appears that the family is once again at the center of Thailand’s political landscape. The future of Paetongtarn’s leadership and the Shinawatra family’s political influence remains uncertain as the country grapples with ongoing power struggles and political instability.
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