Shinawatras Unwavering Political Influence in Thai Politics
Thailand’s political arena remains under the powerful influence of the Shinawatra family, a dynasty that has both unified and divided the nation. The recent nomination of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, as a candidate for prime minister by the Pheu Thai party highlights the family’s continued stronghold on Thai politics.
On August 15, Pheu Thai, the latest political platform for the Shinawatras, nominated Paetongtarn as their candidate for prime minister. This decision followed the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of Srettha Thavisin, from his brief stint as prime minister. Srettha is (or was) a close ally of the Shinawatras. Some see his removal as another setback for the populist Pheu Thai party. While some view it as part of the Shinawatras plans all along. The situation underscores the turbulent nature of Thai politics, where the Shinawatras have been both central figures and contentious players.
Thai military ousted previous Shinawatras
Thaksin Shinawatra, the family patriarch, and his sister Yingluck have both served as prime ministers. However, the military ousted them both in bloodless coups. Despite their controversial exits and self-imposed exiles, the Shinawatras’ appeal to rural voters has kept them politically relevant. Thaksin’s return from exile in 2023 and Srettha’s subsequent rise to power marked a temporary peace between Thaksin and the conservative elite. However, Srettha’s ousting may signal the end of this fragile truce, potentially reigniting Thailand’s political strife.
Paetongtarn’s potential premiership would make her the third Shinawatra to hold the office. Critics argue that she might be controlled by her father, a perception that could undermine her authority. However, her leadership would likely continue the populist policies that have defined the family’s political legacy.
As Thailand braces for the August 16 parliamentary vote, the Shinawatras’ influence shows no signs of waning. The Thaksin dynasty’s legacy of polarization and populism ensures that they will continue to shape Thailand’s political landscape, regardless of the immediate outcome.
