Thai Prime Minister: From leaked phone recording scandal to facing pressure to resign

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra , the powerful family and the stormy journey to the top. Since taking office on August 16, 2024, she has faced a crisis over leaked phone calls, challenging her credibility and the stability of the government.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the current Prime Minister of Thailand, is one of the most influential and visible political figures in the region. Born on August 21, 1986, Paetongtarn is a symbol of a new generation of leaders. As the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and a member of the influential Shinawatra family, Paetongtarn has not only inherited a political legacy but also made her mark, becoming the youngest prime minister in history.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is not only distinguished by her political pedigree but also by her strong academic background, which has shaped her leadership mindset and vision. Her educational journey is built on a combination of domestic knowledge and international experience, giving her a multi-dimensional view of both politics and governance.

In Thailand, Ms. Paetongtarn attended one of the most prestigious universities in the country: Chulalongkorn University (2008). She completed her bachelor's degree with majors in Political Science, Sociology and Anthropology.

Her extensive study of these areas has equipped her with a core understanding of social structure, human behavior, and political systems, which are essential for any leader. This academic background not only provides theoretical knowledge but also develops analytical skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of complex social issues.

After graduating in her home country, Prime Minister Paetongtarn continued her education in the United Kingdom, attending the University of Surrey. There, she obtained a master’s degree in International Hospitality Management. Although seemingly far removed from politics, this major provided her with valuable skills in project management, finance, operations and customer service, skills that can be applied flexibly in many fields, including public administration. Studying abroad also exposed her to an international academic environment, broadening her horizons and training her ability to adapt to different cultures.

As the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and granddaughter of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, Paetongtarn inherits a strong political legacy. Both her father and aunt served as prime ministers, creating a strong political “brand” associated with the Shinawatra name. The presence of Thaksin’s brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, who was also prime minister, further cements the family’s influence in Thailand’s political system. This not only gives Paetongtarn a solid foundation but also puts great pressure on her to prove her ability to lead independently.

In addition to her political role, Prime Minister Paetongtarn also has a small family to rely on. She is married and has two children. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's husband is Mr. Pitak Suksawat. He used to be a commercial pilot, working in the aviation industry. Although not directly involved in politics, Mr. Pitak Suksawat has always been a supportive partner for Mrs. Paetongtarn throughout her challenging career. His stable career in the aviation industry shows a solid and discreet foundation, not too ostentatious in public.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s political career has been an impressive journey, from his early exposure to politics to his rise to the top of the government. This path not only demonstrates his individual talent but also the far-reaching influence of the Shinawatra family in Thailand’s political landscape.

Paetongtarn was exposed to politics from a young age, when her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was active in the field. Her official "debut" in October 2021 at a Pheu Thai Party meeting marked an important turning point. Soon after, she was appointed head of the Advisory Committee on Innovation and Inclusion, signaling her growing role within the party. These moves quickly established her as a prominent figure, expected to continue her family's political legacy.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra played a crucial role in the 2023 general election campaign. She emerged as one of the leading candidates for prime minister of the Pheu Thai Party, attracting a lot of attention from voters and the media. Her charisma, combined with her network and support from her family, helped Pheu Thai achieve remarkable results. The pinnacle of her political career came on August 16, 2024, when she was officially elected Prime Minister of Thailand, becoming the youngest prime minister in history and the second woman to hold the position.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra officially took office on August 16, 2024, marking a historic milestone for Thailand. By becoming the youngest prime minister ever and the second woman to hold this position, this event opened a new era of leadership in the Land of Golden Pagodas.

Her highlights since taking office include inheriting and continuing the political legacy of the Shinawatra family, while representing a dynamic young generation of politicians. Her government is expected to focus on economic policies to improve people’s lives, restore confidence and boost national growth. Despite her young age as head of government, Prime Minister Paetongtarn faces major challenges but also brings hope for change and stability for Thailand.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing a political crisis that could threaten her leadership. The leak of a shocking phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has sparked outrage and forced her to bow in public apology, a rare move for a top leader.

Not only facing heavy pressure from public opinion and opposition factions, the future of the Thai government headed by Ms. Paetongtarn is on the brink of collapse. The incident has not only shaken confidence but also sparked fierce calls for her resignation, raising big questions about the governance ability and stability of Thailand's youngest Prime Minister in the first months of her term. This crisis is truly a political storm that Ms. Paetongtarn must overcome to maintain power and shape the country's destiny.

Thai Prime Minister "almost blew away" the national treasury, just because of a phone call? Khang Trần16:35:36 17/01/2025In a surprising incident, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently revealed that she almost became the victim of a sophisticated money-losing scam in which a thief used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to imitate the voice of a leader...