Following the recent removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin due to ethical violations, Thailand’s new leader, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is gearing up to kickstart the economy. This was made known during a special cabinet meeting held to discuss policies that will be presented at an upcoming parliamentary meeting. Despite the change in leadership, Paetongtarn plans to maintain the core policies of her predecessor, with some adjustments to address pressing issues.
Paetongtarn emphasized her commitment to continuing the work started by Srettha Thavisin’s government, particularly in the realm of economic stimulus. Under her leadership, there will be a focus on debt restructuring, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and initiatives to bolster the agricultural and tourism sectors. The goal is to keep the momentum going and build upon the foundation laid out by the previous administration.
As the youngest daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn faces a range of challenges as she steps into the role of prime minister for the first time. In addition to navigating a delicate economic situation, she may encounter legal obstacles similar to those that led to the removal of her predecessor. It is worth noting that she is the fourth member of her family to hold the top position, with the previous three being ousted through coups or court decisions.
One area of uncertainty lies in the fate of the government’s flagship digital wallet scheme, which was championed by the previous administration. The scheme aims to distribute funds to 50 million Thais through a smartphone application, but the specifics of its implementation remain unclear under the new leadership. Paetongtarn has hinted at potential adjustments to the scheme, suggesting that changes may be on the horizon as her government refines its approach to economic stimulus.
As Thailand’s new prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces a pivotal moment in the nation’s economic trajectory. With a commitment to continuing and adjusting the policies of her predecessor, she aims to steer the country toward stability and growth. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, from economic uncertainties to legal complexities. It remains to be seen how the new administration will navigate these obstacles and shape the country’s future.