BANGKOK: Political newcomer Paetongtarn Shinawatra will bid to become Thailand’s youngest prime minister in a crunch parliamentary vote on Friday (Aug 16), a day after being thrust into the spotlight and an unrelenting power struggle between the country’s warring elites. As Thailand’s political landscape becomes increasingly complex, Paetongtarn Thailand PM contender must navigate a challenging environment to gain support. #PaetongtarnThailandPM
The 37-year-old daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra faces a baptism of fire if she prevails. This follows the dismissal of ally Srettha Thavisin as prime minister just two days earlier. The judiciary, central to Thailand’s two decades of turmoil, made this decision.
Paetongtarn’s future could impact the Shinawatra family’s legacy. Their populist juggernaut suffered its first defeat in over two decades last year. They had to strike a deal with the military to form a government.
Paetongtarn is expected to win parliament’s approval on Friday. However, she could face immediate challenges, including a floundering economy and dwindling popularity of her Pheu Thai Party. The party has yet to deliver on its flagship cash handout program worth 500 billion baht (US$14.25 billion).
Paetongtarn, with no prior government experience, could become Thailand’s second female prime minister. She would be the third Shinawatra to hold the top job, following her aunt Yingluck and her father Thaksin, the country’s most influential and polarizing politician.
“It has only been one year … I will push all the Pheu Thai policies for success,” she said.
“We are determined and ready to push the country forward.”
Moreover, the stakes are high, and Paetongtarn’s leadership abilities will be tested like never before. Therefore, Paetongtarn Thailand PM hopeful must strike a balance between tradition and modernity. #PaetongtarnThailandPM
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