| Early life and education Paetongtarn was born on 21 August 1986 in Bangkok. She completed her junior secondary education at Saint Joseph Convent School and her upper secondary education at Mater Dei School. Paetongtarn studied at the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University where she obtained a BA degree in Political Science in 2008, majoring on Sociology and Anthropology. Paetongtarn then continued her studies in England, where she obtained an MSc degree in International Hotel Management from the University of Surrey.
Economic, Political, and Social positions
From her recent comments, it seems that Paetongtarn is set to continue with the economic agenda of the short-lived Srettha administration. The one question concerning the fate of Srettha’s ฿ 450 billion (US$ 12.5 billion) “digital wallet” stimulus program remains.
There have been reports that Thaksin, the primary powerbroker behind the Pheu Thai Party (PTP), had counseled the abandonment of the costly policy, which will see around 45 million Thai citizens receive payments of ฿ 10,000 (US$ 277).
Paetongtarn denied that she is preparing to abandon the stimulus, claiming that her father had advised her to seek more opinions on the controversial scheme. “The digital wallet scheme is a project we intend to use as a major economic stimulus,” Paetongtarn said. She added that her father had no authority over her government. Yet I may seek his advice depending on his expertise.
The perception that Thaksin is pulling strings behind the government's back is common knowledge, constituting a potential liability for Paetongtarn.
Paetongtarn is socially liberal on many issues. She supports LGBT rights and attended the Bangkok Pride Parade in 2023. Additionally, she supports rewriting the constitution and scrapping military conscription. However, she opposes amending Thailand's lèse-majesté laws. Like her party, Paetongtarn supports stricter drug control and tough-on-crime measures.
PM Paetongtarn pressured over Thaksin's alleged hospital fake-out.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is in a precarious position. Her political career hanging in the balance due to legal issues surrounding her father, Thaksin Shinawatra. On 18 September 2024, the complication arises from allegations that Thaksin, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai party, faked a critical illness to avoid jail time by staying at the Police Hospital in Bangkok.
Unveiled a new bill to regulate cannabis (marijuana) while keeping it legal, comes from PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Lawyer Warns Entire Paetongtarn Cabinet Could Face Impeachment
The warning was issued in a Facebook post by a former assistant to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. The complaint alleges that the policy statement delivered in Parliament by PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra on September 12 contravened Article 162 of the Constitution by failing to specify the sources of revenue to cover the proposed expenses.
No doubt who's behind it. Prawit and co. are looking for any clause to bring down the government. The Ombudsman has a 60-day window to file a petition to Thailand's Constitutional Court, should this remain unresolved.
PM Appoints Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet as Acting Chief of Police Effective 1 October 2024.
Pol. Gen. Kittirat will assume his duties as acting Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police effective from 1 October 2024, stepping in to maintain stability and continuity in the leadership of the police force.
Surachate Hakparn (Big Joke) and Kittirat have long been competing for the top job. Is this the end of the police career for Big Joke?
Thailand’s Business Ease Ranking Plummeted in Asia-Pacific
Among 13 economies evaluated in 2023, Thailand’s score dwindled to 12th place, just above Vietnam. In the realm of market development, Thailand showed some strength in payment. Overall, Thailand's decline poses a troubling sign for its economic landscape and indicates potential challenges for businesses looking to enter or expand in the region.
Thaksin Mediates for Paetongtarn Amid Potential PM Suspension
Thaksin Shinawatra has reportedly engaged in secret discussions with influential figures, aiming to prevent his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, from facing suspension as Thailand's Prime Minister.
This development follows a comprehensive lawsuit against Thaksin and his Pheu Thai Party, which is currently the largest ruling party in Thailand.
The highly confidential negotiations seek to secure that Paetongtarn remains in power ahead of a crucial Constitutional Court verdict expected soon.
The urgency stems from the potential fallout from the Constitutional Court, which may accept a lawsuit alleging Thaksin's undue influence over the party.
PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed relief on Friday, 22 November 2024, following the Constitutional Court's dismissal of a petition targeting her party and her father, Thaksin Shinawatra.
Thaksin Shinawatra Covered His Entire 6-Month Hospital Cost
It was reported that former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who returned home after 15 years in self-imposed exile, footed the whole hospital bill for his six-month stay at the Police General Hospital amid allegations of privileged treatment.
Thaksin Took Direct Action to Push For Controversial Projects Despite Opposition
Thaksin Shinawatra has taken direct action to drive a range of ambitious projects, including legalizing gambling as "entertainment complexes" on Koh Kood (Cambodia) and opening real estate markets to foreigners through a 99-year land lease policy, amidst significant public opposition.
Prominent academic Dr. Wanwichit Boonprong suggests Thaksin's direct involvement is necessary because public confidence in Pheu Thai's leadership under Paetongtarn Shinawatra is lacking.
NACC Launched Inquiry into Thaksin’s Alleged Hospital Fake-out
Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has announced the formation of a special committee to investigate accusations that several government officials facilitated a scheme for Thaksin Shinawatra to feign serious illness, enabling him to reside at the Police Hospital rather than in a conventional prison. This scrutiny comes amidst broader concerns about potential abuses of power and misconduct by officials.
Thai PM Urged to Attend Senate Meetings or Face Potential Censure
Members of the Senate have advised Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to attend their meetings regularly, as continued absences could lead to a censure debate. The senators have expressed frustration over the PM’s tendency to bypass inquiries by not appearing in person nor delegating a representative from her cabinet to respond on her behalf.
Thai Medical Council Probes Ex-PM Thaksin's Extended Hospital Stay
The Medical Council of Thailand is scrutinizing Police General Hospital over former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's prolonged stay post-conviction, sparking questions about potential preferential treatment. A special sub-committee, led by former council president Dr Amorn Leelarasamee, is digging into the conduct of medical professionals involved in his care, inspecting whether ethical guidelines were compromised.
The council sent a letter to the hospital’s director-general demanding comprehensive information including all medical records, the identities of doctors involved, and their assessments during the six-month hospitalization of Thaksin’s illness and the reasoning behind his extended hospital stay. The deadline for providing this information is January 15th, 2025.
PM's assets are worth over ฿13.3 billion, with luxury holdings and family loans
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has released Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's asset declarations, revealing her wealth worth over ฿13.3 billion. The report sums up her extensive assets, liabilities, and lifestyle choices, providing a detailed insight into the financial background of Thailand's leader.
According to the declaration, Paetongtarn's total assets amount to ฿13,993,826,903. Of this, ฿13,846,208,451 belongs to her personally, while ฿147,118,452 is attributed to her husband, Pitak Sukhsawas, and ฿500,000 to their minor child. In addition, the prime minister has reported debts totaling more than ฿4.4 billion.
Opponents of Thaksin Shinawatra are rallying for his return to prison.
The protesters questioned the validity of Thaksin’s medical parole and urged PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to act against her father, to prioritize justice over familial ties.
The protest culminated in a demonstration, after which Deputy Prime Minister Secretary-General Somkid Chuakong received the protesters' open letter at Government House. This letter demanded Paetongtarn leverage her authority to ensure transparency in the investigation of Thaksin's alleged bogus illness.
The letter challenged the government’s integrity and urged the full disclosure of medical records by the Police General Hospital and the Corrections Department. All eyes now remain on how Paetongtarn Shinawatra will navigate this political conundrum.
On March 6, 2025, Thaksin Encountered a Significant Legal Hurdle
The Criminal Court denied his request to travel to Indonesia for the ASEAN meeting.
Thaksin remains embroiled in legal challenges under Thailand's Lèse Majesté law and the Computer Crime Act, and the court ruled there was insufficient reason to permit his departure from the country while proceedings are ongoing.
Arriving at the Criminal Court in Bangkok with his lawyer, Winyat Chatmontri, the ex-PM sought clearance for international travel, citing an invitation from the Indonesian president. The court reviewed his application, beginning at 10am on March 6, but ultimately decided against it, citing the lack of convincing justification amid his legal issues.
Thaksin departed the court in silence at noon, refraining from commenting to the media. His request was officially dismissed later in the afternoon, affirming that he would not be allowed to leave Thailand for the ASEAN meeting set for March 7.
For now, with the court’s resolute ruling, Thaksin remains in Thailand under close government scrutiny. His future moves remain uncertain, and his absence at the ASEAN meeting underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding his legal and political situation, reported The Thaiger.
Thaksin Investigation Stalled by Legal Hurdles, Admits NACC
Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) informed that their investigation into how former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra allegedly managed to receive medical treatment at Police General Hospital without standard prison detention is facing delays.
The NACC remains firm that once all evidence is obtained, they will either advance the case to the charging phase or conclude the inquiry by submitting the findings for further review. As the investigation lingers in procedural limbo, the Thai public and political observers continue to anticipate its outcome.
Supreme Court Dismisses Case Against Thaksin Shinawatra
On 30 April 2025, the Supreme Court once again dismissed the case against former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The lawsuit, filed by former lawmaker Charnchai Israsenarak, accused Thaksin and the Department of Corrections of unlawfully circumventing legal procedures.
Thaksin had previously been sentenced to eight years in prison for abuse of power during his tenure as prime minister. This was reduced to one year under a royal pardon. The controversy arose when the Department of Corrections transferred Thaksin to the VIP ward of Police Hospital, citing health concerns, without obtaining prior court approval, which Israsenarak claimed amounted to contempt of court.
The Supreme Court judges ruled that the Department of Corrections' post-sentencing actions were beyond the court's jurisdiction. As a result, no further hearings will take place, effectively clearing Thaksin and the Corrections Department officials of these charges.
Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Responds to Moody’s Downgrade
The downgrade from stable to negative of Thailand's outlook by Moody's is primarily based on concerns that the country's export-driven economic and fiscal strength could deteriorate further, particularly in light of US trade and tariff policies.
Speaking at the TNN DINNER TALK at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Bangkok, she addressed several key issues affecting Thailand's economy and international perception following Moody's recent decision to downgrade Thailand's credit outlook.
According to Ms Paetongtarn, this adjustment should not be interpreted as a loss of confidence in Thailand, but merely Moody's perspective amidst global economic challenges, particularly regarding tax measures and trade barriers impacting various countries. She also highlighted the potential of Thailand's infrastructure projects, such as high-speed rail and logistics centers, to boost the economy and reduce dependence on seasonal tourism cycles.
Concluding her remarks, Ms Paetongtarn reassured the public of the government's commitment to tackling economic hurdles, notably tax barriers, through strategic negotiations and regional cooperation within ASEAN. She expressed confidence in Thailand's skilled negotiators and government personnel to safeguard the nation's economic interests.
Separately, when queried about her father, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra’s legal problems, she deflected, suggesting that journalists should direct their questions to him directly.
Supreme Court to Probe Enforcement of Thaksin’s Prison Sentence
On 2 May 2025, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office decided to hold an inquiry on June 13th to determine whether former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's prison sentence has been properly enforced.
Key figures have been summoned for this upcoming inquiry, including the governor of the Bangkok Remand Prison—designated as Thaksin’s initial place of incarceration—the director-general of the Corrections Department, the chief doctor at the Police General Hospital, and the prosecutor involved in Thaksin’s case.
This inquiry is crucial for addressing public concerns around the enforcement of justice and ensuring transparency in politically sensitive legal matters.
Thaksin Faces Jail as Court Probes Legality of Hospital Stay
Thaksin Shinawatra could face imprisonment if authorities can't justify his transfer to a hospital on health-based grounds.
The Supreme Court recently dismissed a case over his alleged jail avoidance, but left the door open for further investigation. Thaksin avoided jail by spending six months at the Police General Hospital, a move that is now under scrutiny.
Legal experts warn that Thaksin could be sent back to jail if the Department of Corrections cannot prove his transfer to the hospital was necessary for his health. If the court finds the transfer unjustified, Thaksin could be jailed for the remainder of his sentence or even face his original eight-year sentence if his clemency application is challenged.
The Supreme Court has ordered an investigation into whether officials carried out his prison sentence properly. It questions the legality of his transfer from prison just hours after his return to Thailand on 22 August 2023, a day marked by a royal pardon that reduced his sentence.
The Department of Corrections defends its actions under a 2017 amendment to the Corrections Act, which allows seriously ill inmates to be detained outside prison. However, the Criminal Code Procedure requires court notification if severe health issues interrupt remand terms.
Recently equipped with a new panel of judges, the Supreme Court faces a pivotal decision that could redefine how Thailand handles such high-profile cases.
Observers are eagerly awaiting the court's ruling, anticipating its implications on both Thaksin's fate and more broadly the justice system's integrity.
Thai Medical Council Debunks Thaksin’s Critical Illness Claims
The Medical Council of Thailand has said that Thaksin Shinawatra is not suffering from the critical illness previously reported.
On 8 May 2025, Professor Doctor Prasit Watanapa, first vice-president of the Medical Council, confirmed that a meeting of 60 council members had reviewed Thaksin's health, initially reported as critical, and found no evidence to support such life-threatening claims.
The medical council concluded that Thaksin's health didn't warrant a prolong stay at the police hospital, raising questions about his hospitalization rather than remaining in prison. Attention now turns to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who chairs the Medical Council and could potentially veto the council's decisions on Thaksin's alleged health.
In a related action, the General Medical Council suspended the medical licenses of two doctors involved in Thaksin's treatment for failing to uphold medical ethics and providing misleading health information. Another doctor received a formal warning for compromised professional conduct.
In sum, the medical council's findings not only call into question the veracity of Thaksin's claims of illness but also highlight a significant legal and ethical battle that could redefine the boundaries of political influence in Thailand's medical circles.
Doctors in Hot Water
Police Probe Looms Over Thaksin Case
The national police chief, Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, has warned that the two doctors suspended by the Thai Medical Council could face a disciplinary investigation.
“If confirmed that these doctors committed offenses, they could face disciplinary action and punishment, given their status as police officers,” stated Pol Gen Kitrat. Additionally, criminal charges loom if formal complaints are filed against them.
This development raises concerns over integrity and transparency within Thailand’s medical and justice systems. The implications of this case could set significant precedents concerning ethical standards and accountability in medical practice.
PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Defends Father's Hospital Stay Amid Scandal
Following the Thai Medical Council's recent decision to suspend two doctors and reprimand another over allegations that they provided false medical reports for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The controversy has cast a shadow over the Shinawatra family amid allegations of wrongdoing.
PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra has strongly defended her father's prolonged stay at the Police General Hospital, saying his illness was genuine. She has made it clear that she had no hand in these unfolding events, pointing out that her ascension to the premiership came after her father's release from the hospital and parole.
As the situation unfolds, Thailand's political landscape remains tense, with many awaiting further revelations. Thaksin's uncharacteristic silence has only added to the intrigue surrounding the matter.
While Paetongtarn remains steadfast in her defense, the matter continues to provoke public and political discourse and underscores the complexities facing key players in Thai politics today.
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Urged to Ditch Thaksin from ASEAN Advisor Role
The Student and People's Network for Reform in Thailand has petitioned Anwar Ibrahim to remove Thaksin Shinawatra from his advisory role in ASEAN*.
The group's concerns focus on the potential for Thaksin to use his current advisory role to evade justice. Pichit Chaiyamongkol, the group's leader, underlined these fears when he delivered their letter to the Malaysian embassy.
The group believes that if Thaksin's legal status as an advisor to ASEAN is upheld, it could undermine justice and hinder reform efforts. The request to relieve Thaksin of his advisory duties points to tensions in the Thai political state of affairs and the wider ASEAN context.
In summary, the group determined that Thaksin should not have any influential roles while facing significant legal challenges in Thailand.
*-- Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Thaksin Treatment Saga Continues Here
|
