Bangkok, August 18, 2024, The Europe Today: Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, officially assumed the role of Thailand’s Prime Minister on Sunday, following a formal endorsement by King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
At 37 years old, Paetongtarn Shinawatra has made history as Thailand’s youngest-ever Prime Minister. Her appointment comes on the heels of the Constitutional Court’s recent dismissal of her ally Srettha Thavisin from the premiership, and the subsequent disbanding of the primary opposition party, marking another chapter in Thailand’s ongoing political turbulence.
In her inaugural press conference, Paetongtarn pledged to revitalize Thailand’s struggling economy. “As head of the government, I will work with Parliament with an open heart, open to all ideas to help develop the country,” she stated. “This duty cannot be done by the Prime Minister alone. I hope to harness the talents of all generations and sectors in Thailand — from the cabinet, the coalition, civil servants, the private sector, and the people.”
King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s endorsement earlier in the day cleared the way for Paetongtarn to begin forming her cabinet, which is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
The new Prime Minister affirmed her commitment to continuing the policies of her predecessor, which include significant economic stimulus measures, drug enforcement reforms, enhancements to the universal healthcare system, and the promotion of gender diversity. Paetongtarn also reiterated her support for the government’s flagship digital wallet policy — a substantial handout program valued at 500 billion baht ($15 billion) — while emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility.
“The goal is to stimulate the economy, and this intention remains central to our plans,” Paetongtarn concluded.
With these pledges, Paetongtarn Shinawatra steps into a pivotal role at a time of significant political and economic challenges, aiming to steer Thailand towards a more stable and prosperous future.
