Famous Thai Political Leaders

Yingluck Shinawatra is a Thai businesswoman and politician who rose to prominence as the Prime Minister of Thailand after the 2011 election. She holds a bachelor's degree in public administration and a master's degree from Kentucky State University. Prior to her political career, Yingluck worked as an executive in her brother's businesses and later held leadership positions in property development and telecommunications companies. Despite facing legal challenges and a subsequent conviction, she continues to be involved in business activities, currently serving as the chairwoman of Shantou International Container Terminals Ltd.

Princess Srinagarindra, also known as Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Boromarajajonani, had a distinguished professional life marked by her dedication to public service and philanthropy. She was revered as "the Royal Grandmother" in Thailand and held in high esteem by various hill tribe people as "Mae Fah Luang," signifying her role as a caring and benevolent figure. Throughout her career, she championed numerous humanitarian causes, demonstrating a deep commitment to improving the welfare and well-being of her fellow citizens.

Pridi Phanomyong was a prominent Thai statesman and professor who played a key role in various ministerial positions, as regent, and as prime minister in Thailand. He co-founded Khana Ratsadon, led its civilian wing, and contributed significantly to modernizing Thai legal codes, establishing the local government system, and negotiating the cancellation of unequal treaties with the West. Despite facing political opposition and exile, Pridi remained a symbol of resistance against military dictatorships and a champion of liberal politics and education.

Thaksin Shinawatra is a Thai businessman and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 2001 to 2006. He founded Advanced Info Service and Shin Corporation, becoming one of Thailand's wealthiest individuals. Thaksin established the Thai Rak Thai Party in 1998 and implemented various policies during his tenure, including a "war on drugs" campaign, poverty reduction programs, infrastructure development, and healthcare expansion. However, his leadership was marked by controversy, leading to his ousting in a military coup in 2006.

Prayut Chan-o-cha is a former Thai politician and army officer who served as the 29th Prime Minister of Thailand. He seized power in the 2014 military coup and governed until 2023, also holding the position of Minister of Defence in his own government. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, Prayut was the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and led the 2014 Thai coup d'état. His leadership was characterized by authoritarianism, crackdowns on dissent, and censorship of public discussions. After retiring from politics, he was appointed as a Privy Councilor.

Chuan Leekpai is a Thai politician who has held several key positions in the government. He served as the Thai prime minister twice, first from 1992 to 1995 and again from 1997 to 2001. Known for his leadership of the Democrat Party, he became Thailand's first prime minister without aristocratic or military support in 1992. Chuan led a coalition government and focused on addressing social security issues despite facing criticism for inaction and corruption scandals.

Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat was a Thai general who rose to power through a military coup in 1957, becoming Thailand's prime minister. He held a strong grip on the country's politics until his death in 1963. Known for his authoritarian rule, Sarit implemented various reforms and policies aimed at modernizing Thailand and strengthening its position on the global stage. He was also instrumental in forming alliances with Western powers during the Cold War era, particularly the United States.

Surin Pitsuwan was a Thai diplomat and politician of Malay descent. He served as the 12th secretary-general of ASEAN from 2008 to 2012. Throughout his professional life, he made significant contributions to regional diplomacy and international relations. Surin was known for his commitment to fostering cooperation among Southeast Asian nations and promoting peace and stability in the region. His tenure at ASEAN was marked by efforts to enhance economic integration, strengthen political ties, and address regional challenges through dialogue and collaboration.

Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a Thai military officer and politician who served as Prime Minister of Thailand for a total of 15 years. A key figure in the Siamese revolution of 1932, he established a military dictatorship inspired by Italian fascism, promoting Thai nationalism, changing the country's name to "Thailand," and aligning with Imperial Japan in World War II. Despite facing political instability and coup attempts, he later shifted towards democracy before being overthrown and going into exile in Japan.

Mom Rajawongse Seni Pramoj was a prominent figure in Thailand, serving as Prime Minister three times. He was a respected politician in the Democrat Party, as well as a skilled lawyer, diplomat, and professor. As a descendant of the Thai royal family, he held a significant place in the country's history. His professional life was marked by his dedication to public service, leadership, and commitment to upholding democratic values in Thailand.

Certainly! Chatichai Choonhavan was a prominent figure in Thai politics, serving as a distinguished army officer, diplomat, and politician. He played a significant role as the chairman of the Thai Nation Party from 1986 to 1991, during which he led the party with authority. His most notable position was serving as the Prime Minister of Thailand from August 1988 until the 1991 coup d'état, showcasing his leadership skills and political influence during a crucial period in the country's history.

Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul is a prominent Thai student political activist and university student leader. She serves as the spokesperson of the Student Union of Thailand and gained recognition for her vocal criticism of the Thai monarchy. During the 2020 Thai protests, she played a key role in leading revolutionary demonstrations advocating for significant structural reform within the monarchy. Despite facing imprisonment under Article 112, she continued to bravely champion her cause, even going on a hunger strike in protest against the ruling since March 30, 2021.

Samak Sundaravej was a Thai politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand and Minister of Defense in 2008. He was also the leader of the People's Power Party in the same year. Throughout his professional career, Samak was known for his involvement in politics and his leadership roles within the government. His tenure as Prime Minister was brief, but his contributions to Thai politics and governance during his time in office were notable.

Abhisit Vejjajiva is a Thai politician who served as the prime minister of Thailand from 2008 to 2011. He was the leader of the Democrat Party, holding the position from 2005 until his resignation in 2019. Abhisit was also the leader of the opposition and served as minister to the Office of the Prime Minister. During his term as prime minister, he focused on policies to improve the living conditions of rural and working-class citizens, implemented economic stimulus packages, and advocated for anti-corruption measures despite facing criticism and challenges such as major protests and human rights violations.

Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn served as Prime Minister of Thailand from 1963 to 1973, during which he was known for supporting and initiating military coups. He also held the position of Thailand's Defense Minister. Thanom rose to power through a self-coup, but faced public protests that led to his resignation. His return from exile in 1976 triggered further protests, culminating in a violent crackdown on demonstrators and subsequent military intervention.

Mechai Viravaidya is a prominent figure in Thailand known for his advocacy in promoting condoms, family planning, and AIDS awareness. Affectionately called "Mr. Condom", he has played a significant role in reducing the average number of children in Thai families from 7 to 1.5 since the 1970s. Mechai's efforts have had a positive impact on millions of people, earning him credit for improving lives through his work in public health and social activism.

Banharn Silpa-archa was a prominent Thai politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1995 to 1996. Prior to his political career, he achieved success in the construction industry. He represented Suphan Buri in Parliament and held various cabinet positions in different governments. Banharn became the leader of the Thai Nation Party in 1994. However, in 2008, the party was dissolved by the Constitutional Court, leading to Banharn being barred from politics for five years.

Kukrit Pramoj was a prominent Thai politician, author, scholar, and professor. He served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Thailand and was the thirteenth Prime Minister of Thailand. Known for his affiliation with the Thai royal family, he held key governmental positions during the 1970s. In addition to his political career, Pramoj was actively involved in academia and literature. His diverse professional background showcased his leadership skills, intellectual prowess, and cultural contributions to Thailand.

Khuang Aphaiwong, also known by his noble title Luang Kowit-aphaiwong, was a prominent figure in Thai politics. He founded the Democrat Party and served as the Prime Minister of Thailand three times during the mid-20th century. His terms in office were from August 1944 to 1945, January to May 1946, and November 1947 to April 1948. Khuang Aphaiwong's political career was characterized by his leadership in shaping the political landscape of Thailand and his contributions to the country's governance.

Sunthorn Kongsompong served as the de facto head of government of Thailand from 1991 to 1992 after leading a military coup d'etat. He co-led the coup with General Suchinda Kraprayoon and established the National Peacekeeping Council (NPKC) as an interim administration. Following the promulgation of the May 1992 constitution, which prohibited military members from holding the premier's office, Sunthorn left political office. His professional life was characterized by military leadership and involvement in the governance of Thailand during a period of political transition.

Phao Sriyanond was a Police General in Thailand known for his role as director general of the national police. Despite his high-ranking position, he gained notoriety for his harsh treatment of political opponents. His actions led to his eventual exile from the country. Sriyanond's professional life was marked by controversy and excesses, as he wielded his power in a manner that raised concerns about human rights abuses and authoritarian behavior within the Thai law enforcement system.

Binnya Dala was a key leader in the revival of the Mon-speaking kingdom of Hanthawaddy, successfully revolting against the Toungoo dynasty. He served as the prime minister before being elected as the king of Hanthawaddy. Binnya Dala led invasions against the Toungoo dynasty, capturing Ava but ultimately facing resistance from Alaungpaya's Konbaung dynasty. Following a failed invasion, Hanthawaddy adopted self-defeating policies of ethnic polarization. Binnya Dala and his forces were eventually defeated by Alaungpaya, leading to his capture, imprisonment, and eventual execution after a Mon rebellion.