Opinion: What to expect (and not to expect) from the government led by Srettha Thavisin
The new Thai cabinet led by Srettha Thavisin has not yet been officially announced, but the contours are starting to take shape. The ruling Pheu Thai party has presented a tentative list, fueling speculation about the country's future course. This opinion article explores what Thailand can expect politically and economically, but also what uncertainties and contradictions are lurking.
Srettha Thavisin, former president and CEO of real estate developer Sansiri Plc, was elected Thailand's 30th prime minister on Tuesday. The election took place in a joint assembly of MPs and Senators, winning an overwhelming majority of the vote. Thavisin is a prominent figure within the Pheu Thai party.
“From successful businessman to controversial politician: The story of Thaksin Shinawatra”
Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand and founder of the Thai Rak Thai Party in 1998, is a controversial figure. He acquired his wealth through successful entrepreneurship and strategic investments, particularly in telecommunications. After Thaksin became prime minister, he introduced various populist measures, such as cheap health care and microcredit. Despite his popularity, he was criticized for his authoritarian style of governance, curtailment of press freedom and human rights violations. Thaksin was deposed in a military coup in 2006 and convicted of corruption, after which he went into exile. His daughter Paetongtarn is now active in politics and campaigning in rural areas of Thailand. Thaksin's enduring influence illustrates how one figure can have a major impact on a country's politics and society.
Elections in Thailand: Programs of the four main political parties
On March 24, elections will take place in Thailand that have been promised for four years and that everyone is eagerly awaiting. There are over 100 registered political parties; how many actually participate in the elections is not yet clear. Here we describe the election programs of the four most well-known and probably most successful parties.
