Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 38, Becomes Thailand's Youngest PM Amid Economic and Political Turmoil
September 7, 2024Paetongtarn Shinawatra, at just 38 years old, has been appointed as Thailand's youngest Prime Minister, following a tumultuous political landscape marked by the removal of Srettha and the dissolution of the opposition Move Forward party.
In her first official act, she convened a special cabinet meeting to prepare policies for a parliamentary meeting scheduled for mid-September, which will mark the formal beginning of her administration.
Paetongtarn's government is prioritizing key initiatives such as debt restructuring for housing and car loans, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and boosting the agricultural and tourism sectors.
Additionally, her administration aims to legalize certain underground economic activities to enhance state revenue, a move seen as crucial for economic recovery.
Plans are also underway to draft a more democratic constitution, which is expected to bolster political stability and investor confidence.
However, she faces significant challenges, including a sluggish economy, high household debt, and declining support for her Pheu Thai party, exacerbated by delays in the digital wallet program.
Part of her government's ambitious 450 billion baht ($13.4 billion) handout plan will involve cash distribution, indicating potential adjustments to the previously troubled digital wallet initiative.
Despite her aims to revive the economy, analysts warn that maintaining political stability will be a significant challenge following recent upheavals.
At her first press conference, Paetongtarn emphasized the continuity of economic stimulation efforts initiated by her predecessor, Srettha.
As the leader of a coalition government, she must unite diverse political factions while reassuring foreign investors about the country's political stability and economic policies.
The legacy of her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, continues to influence perceptions of her leadership, despite his exile and the challenges faced by parties linked to him.
Overall, her administration's success will depend on effectively addressing economic challenges while navigating the complex political landscape of Thailand.
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