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Key facts about Thailand's new prime minister

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 7:12 GMT by Seattle Times
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Key Facts About Thailand’s New Prime Minister – A Quick Guide

On May 21, 2023 the King of Thailand, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, appointed Srettha Thavisin as the country’s 30th prime minister. A career banker rather than a career politician, Thavisin’s rise to the nation’s top job has been watched closely both in Thailand and abroad. Below is a concise, up‑to‑date summary of the most important facts about the new leader, including background, career, and the political context that led to his appointment.

1. Personal Background

Srettha grew up in a modest Bangkok family, and after earning his MBA he returned to Thailand to work for the country’s leading financial institution, Siam Commercial Bank (SCB).

2. Banking Career

• Early Years – Srettha joined SCB in 1990 as a junior analyst, quickly rising through the ranks.
• Leadership – He served as Chief Executive Officer (2005‑2007) and later became Chairman of the Board (2008‑2021). Under his stewardship, SCB expanded into digital banking, increased its market share, and established a global presence.
• Philanthropy – While at SCB, he launched the SCB Foundation, focusing on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

His banking tenure earned him a reputation as a pragmatic, results‑oriented executive, a contrast to the military‑dominated political elite that had ruled Thailand for decades.

3. Political Context

• 2023 General Election – The Move Forward Party (MFP), led by former student activist Pita Limjaroenrat, won the largest share of seats but fell short of a parliamentary majority.
• Coalition Negotiations – Despite initial promises to form a coalition, the MFP faced pressure from the monarchy, the judiciary, and the constitutional court over its platform, which included reforms to Thailand’s lèse‑majesté law and the monarchy’s privileges.
• King’s Decree – With no clear coalition formed, the Thai constitution allows the king to appoint a prime minister who can secure a majority in the National Assembly. On May 21, 2023, the king selected Srettha, who had the backing of the United Thai Nation Party and other parliamentary factions.

For more detail on the constitutional process, see the Thai Constitution of 2017 (Article 115) and the official decree issued by King Vajiralongkorn.

4. Policy Priorities

While Thavisin has not yet outlined an exhaustive platform, several themes have emerged:

1. Economic Growth & Investment – Focus on boosting tourism, digital infrastructure, and attracting foreign direct investment. He has cited Thailand’s potential as a “gateway to ASEAN” in early statements.
2. Financial Inclusion – Leveraging his banking experience to expand access to credit for small and medium‑sized enterprises.
3. Digital Transformation – Continuing SCB’s push into fintech and encouraging broader adoption of e‑government services.
4. Social Stability – Emphasizing a “moderate” approach that balances reform with respect for the monarchy and existing institutions.

5. Significance

• First Civilian PM in Two Decades – Srettha’s appointment marks the first time since the 1997 “People’s Power” movement that a civilian, with no military background, has become prime minister.
• Business‑Centric Leadership – His background signals a shift toward technocratic governance, potentially easing concerns about the military’s influence.
• Balancing Act – As a king‑appointed leader, Thavisin faces the delicate task of navigating Thailand’s political factions, the monarchy’s expectations, and a restless electorate demanding reform.

6. What Comes Next

• Cabinet Formation – Thavisin will convene a cabinet meeting in the coming weeks to appoint ministers, many of whom will come from the private sector.
• Parliamentary Confidence Vote – The National Assembly will hold a confidence vote, which is expected to confirm his leadership if he secures the necessary majority.
• Policy Implementation – Early focus will be on stabilizing the economy, especially as Thailand recovers from the COVID‑19 pandemic and addresses global supply chain disruptions.

Quick Links for Further Reading

• Move Forward Party Official Site – https://moveforwardparty.org
• Thai Constitution (English Translation) – https://www.constitutionlaw.com/constitution/
• Siam Commercial Bank Profile – https://www.scb.co.th

In summary, Thailand’s new prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, brings a unique blend of banking expertise and political pragmatism to the office. His appointment is a landmark in Thai politics, symbolizing a potential shift toward civilian, business‑oriented governance while still respecting the monarchy’s pivotal role. The coming months will reveal how his policies translate into action and whether they will meet the expectations of a nation poised for change.