Thailand has a new young prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was endorsed by the king after winning two-thirds of the vote in the House of Representatives. She comes from a family with a long history in Thai politics, being the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the niece of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Paetongtarn has promised to continue her predecessor’s policies, including economic stimulus, healthcare reform, and promoting gender diversity.
One of the biggest challenges for Paetongtarn will be addressing the struggling economy, which has been a concern for Thai voters. Many are wondering why her party has failed to deliver on promises such as the digital wallet scheme. Analysts say that the economy will be her ‘bread and butter’ issue, with high public debt and falling behind neighbors.
The Shinawatra family, a dominant force in Thai politics, is another challenge for Paetongtarn. Her party suffered its first election defeat in over two decades last year, and the court has dissolved the anti-establishment Move Forward Party. However, the new prime minister is expected to focus on appeasing the military and royalists and not touch the royal defamation law.
Thailand remains divided between the Pheu Thai Party, led by Paetongtarn, and the People’s Party, the Pheu Thai’s biggest challenger. The new government will aim to maintain stability and unity amid political turmoil and economic challenges.
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