Paetongtarn Shinawatra Becomes Thailand’s Youngest Ever Prime Minister

Thailand’s parliament has elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as the country’s new prime minister. At 37 years old, Paetongtarn becomes Thailand’s youngest leader and the second woman to hold the office, following her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.

Paetongtarn’s appointment comes shortly after former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was dismissed by a constitutional court. Both leaders are from the Pheu Thai Party, which came in second in the 2023 elections but managed to form a ruling coalition.

Upon her election, Paetongtarn expressed her commitment to revitalizing Thailand’s economy and steering clear of the military coups and court interventions that have plagued her party’s previous administrations. With 319 votes in favor and 145 against, she takes on the leadership role as the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to serve as prime minister in the last 20 years.

Visibly moved after the vote, Paetongtarn acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized her strong will and the support of her experienced team. “I really hope that I can make people feel confident that we can build opportunities, improve the quality of life, and empower all Thais,” she said.