Thailand’s new prime minister is Paetongtarn Shinawatra. She is the second female to assume the post and the daughter of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Paetongtarn is the third member of the Shinawatra dynasty.

The new Prime Minister vowed to build opportunities and upgrade the lives of Thais by addressing the economy positively. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the newly installed Prime Minister, made it public that her father, the former Thai Prime Minister, expressed the urge the urge to “do your best.” Despite the older Shinawatra’s age, he is glad to see her daughter take the role that he once took.

She obtained her education from the elite schools in Thailand and later moved to the United Kingdom, where she pursued her university studies. Eventually, she helped her family business, Rende Hotel Group.

In October 2023, she was appointed as the party leader of Pheu Thai after her membership in 2021.

The Pheu Thai Party, also known in English as “For Thais Party,” is one of the biggest parties in Thailand, founded by the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, father of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Thailand’s parliamentary members elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra, making her the second woman, after her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra, Thaksin’s sister, and the youngest prime minister in the history of Thailand.

She obtained 319 endorsements against 145 votes. Although she was confused and sad about the fate of Mr. Srettha’s dismissal, she felt honored and happy to serve the Thai people. She promised that she would do her best and move forward. For her, it was the best timing to do something for the best interest of her party and country.

Some of her campaign promises last year were focused on resolving the fees for Bangkok transportation, making healthcare coverage more inclusive, and increasing compensation for minimum wage earners.

Expectations for the new leadership are not only among the various sectors in Thailand but also among those from the international community. Addressing the economic gaps was her first agenda item, based on her pronouncements right after the declaration of her victory. There is also the concern of domestic politics among parties that needs to be addressed. Thailand’s future is really dependent on how the new prime minister will navigate the compass of Bangkok in the midst of challenges and dilemmas.