Paetongtarn Shinawatra Becomes Thailand’s Youngest Prime Minister
On August 16, the Thai Parliament elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the youngest-ever prime minister of Thailand. Paetongtarn, also known as Ung Ing, is 37 years old and the youngest child of billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra. She is the third member of her family to hold the nation’s top job, following her father and aunt.
Paetongtarn succeeds Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from his position by a constitutional court ruling. The ruling coalition of her Pheu Thai party confirmed her nomination after no other parties in the coalition put forward an alternative candidate.
Paetongtarn has been involved in the family’s business empire and entered politics three years ago. She was a prominent figure in the 2023 elections, even giving birth just two weeks before polling day. The reformist Move Forward Party (MFP) initially won the most seats in parliament but was blocked from forming a government by the Senate. The constitutional court later dissolved MFP and banned its executive board members from politics for 10 years.
Doubts Revealed
Paetongtarn Shinawatra -: Paetongtarn Shinawatra is a person who has just become the Prime Minister of Thailand. She is 37 years old and is the youngest person to ever hold this position in Thailand.
Prime Minister -: A Prime Minister is the leader of a country’s government. They make important decisions and help run the country.
Thailand -: Thailand is a country in Asia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and delicious food.
Thai Parliament -: The Thai Parliament is a group of people who make laws and decisions for Thailand. They are like the government of the country.
Srettha Thavisin -: Srettha Thavisin was the Prime Minister of Thailand before Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He had to leave his job because of a decision made by a special court.
Constitutional court ruling -: A constitutional court ruling is a decision made by a special court that makes sure the laws of the country are being followed correctly.
Ung Ing -: Ung Ing is a nickname for Paetongtarn Shinawatra. It is a shorter and more familiar way to call her.
Thaksin Shinawatra -: Thaksin Shinawatra is Paetongtarn’s father. He is a very rich man and was also the Prime Minister of Thailand before.
Pheu Thai party -: The Pheu Thai party is a political group in Thailand. They work together to win elections and make decisions for the country.
Ruling coalition -: A ruling coalition is a group of different political parties that work together to run the government.
