Thailand’s 1st female PM Yingluck Shinawatra sends hope, caution as niece Paetongtarn takes position

In a message shared on social media platform X on Tuesday, Yingluck expressed her pride in Paetongtarn for taking on the responsibility of leading the country. She also warned her niece about the challenges ahead, including the intense pressure and high expectations, particularly in light of the country’s current economic difficulties.

This handout picture released and taken by the Royal Thai Government on Aug. 18, 2024 shows Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, speaking during the royal endorsement ceremony appointing her as Thailand’s new prime minister in Bangkok. Photo handed out via AFP

Yingluck voiced her confidence that Paetongtarn would navigate these challenges successfully. “Being the youngest female prime minister in Thai history comes with significant pressure and expectations, especially given the economic problems we face,” reads Yingluck’s translated post, which was originally written in Thai.

She said that Paetongtarn is a “strong, capable” leader who values others’ opinions and is attentive to the feelings of those around her. “We have faced many tough and challenging situations before, but we have always come through them with strength. That’s why I truly believe that no matter what problems or situations arise in the future, you will overcome them and succeed,” Yingluck added.

Ousted former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra gestures as she arrives at the Supreme Court, for a trial on criminal negligence looking into her role in a debt-ridden rice subsidy scheme during her administration, in Bangkok, Thailand, Jan. 15, 2016. Photo by Reuters

Yingluck, 57, made history as Thailand’s first female prime minister. She is the younger sister of Thaksin Shinawatra and the second member of the Shinawatra family to lead the government, following her brother.

Both Yingluck and Thaksin were ousted in coups and subsequently lived in exile. Thaksin returned to Thailand last year after more than 15 years in exile. In April, he expressed hope that Yingluck would also soon be able to return home.

Paetongtarn, 37, assumed the position of prime minister on Aug. 18, becoming the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold this office.

 

 

Thailand’s 1st female PM Yingluck Shinawatra sends hope, caution as niece Paetongtarn takes position

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