Paetongtarn Shinawatra Becomes Thailand’s Youngest Prime Minister, Carrying on Her Family’s Political Legacy

Thailand is set to witness the rise of its youngest-ever prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking a significant moment in the country’s political history. At just 37 years old, Paetongtarn, the daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is stepping into the office that both her father and aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, once held. Her ascension to power underscores the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family in Thai politics, despite years of political turbulence and military interventions.

Paetongtarn’s journey to the premiership has been anything but typical. Her entry into the political arena came last year when she campaigned across rural Thailand for the Pheu Thai party. Despite being visibly pregnant during her campaign trail, she demonstrated resilience and commitment to her family’s political cause. The Pheu Thai party, although securing only second place in the 2023 elections, managed to form a ruling coalition after the vote-winning party was blocked by military-backed lawmakers. This strategic maneuvering paved the way for Paetongtarn’s eventual rise to the top office.

Her rise to power was accelerated when Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was dismissed by a court order, leaving a leadership vacuum that Paetongtarn was quick to fill. With the backing of her party and coalition partners, she secured the necessary parliamentary support to become Thailand’s youngest prime minister and only the second woman to hold the position, following in the footsteps of her aunt Yingluck.

Despite her lack of administrative experience, Paetongtarn’s appointment is seen as a continuation of the Shinawatra legacy. Her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, is one of Thailand’s most polarizing political figures, known for his populist policies that won him widespread support among the rural poor. Thaksin’s governments, however, were twice overthrown by military coups, first in 2006 and then again in 2014 during Yingluck’s tenure. These events have left deep scars in Thai politics, and Paetongtarn’s government will undoubtedly face scrutiny from both allies and opponents.

Paetongtarn’s ascent also comes at a time of significant political division in Thailand. The alliance between her Pheu Thai party and military-backed parties, which have historically been at odds, is a testament to the complex and often contradictory nature of Thai politics. The coalition’s formation represents a pragmatic approach to governance, but it also highlights the enduring tensions between Thailand’s populist and conservative-royalist factions.

For Paetongtarn, the challenge lies not only in governing but also in stepping out of her father’s shadow. She has openly acknowledged the influence her father has had on her life and career, stating, “I consult with my father on all issues, whether on private matters or about work, since I was young. He has done this before. He was a prime minister.” However, to succeed as a leader in her own right, Paetongtarn will need to navigate the complexities of Thai politics with a deft hand, balancing her family’s legacy with the demands of a nation seeking stability and progress.

As she prepares to take on this monumental role, Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the Shinawatra dynasty. Her story is not just about political power but also about the enduring influence of a family that has shaped Thailand’s modern political landscape for over two decades.