Famous Thai Prime Ministers

Yingluck Shinawatra is a Thai businesswoman and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand following the 2011 election. She earned degrees in public administration and held executive positions in her brother's businesses before becoming president of SC Asset and managing director of Advanced Info Service. Nominated by the Pheu Thai Party, she campaigned on reconciliation, poverty eradication, and tax reduction, winning the election. Removed from office in 2014 due to an abuse of power charge, she has since been involved in a Chinese port operator.

Chuan Leekpai is a Thai politician who served as the president of the National Assembly of Thailand and the speaker of the Thai House of Representatives from 2019 to 2023. He held the position of Thai prime minister twice, first from 1992 to 1995 and then from 1997 to 2001. As the leader of the Democrat Party, he became Thailand's first prime minister without aristocratic or military support. Chuan's administrations were marked by coalition governments and efforts to address social security issues despite facing criticism for being slow to act and dealing with corruption scandals.

Thaksin Shinawatra is a Thai businessman and politician who served as Prime Minister of Thailand from 2001 to 2006. He founded Advanced Info Service, a mobile phone operator, and Shin Corporation, an IT and telecommunications conglomerate. Thaksin also established the Thai Rak Thai Party (TRT) in 1998. During his tenure, he implemented various programs to address poverty, improve infrastructure, and provide healthcare coverage. His leadership was marked by controversial decisions like the "war on drugs" and the sale of shares in his corporation. Thaksin was deposed in a military coup in 2006 and spent years in self-imposed exile before returning to Thailand in 2023.

Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat was a Thai general who staged a coup in 1957, becoming Thailand's prime minister until his death in 1963. Known for his military prowess and leadership, he implemented various political and economic reforms during his tenure. Sarit played a crucial role in modernizing Thailand's armed forces and strengthening its position in regional politics. His legacy includes a reputation for being a strong and decisive leader who prioritized national security and stability.

Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a Thai military officer and politician who played a significant role in the political landscape of Thailand during the mid-20th century. Serving as Prime Minister of Thailand for a total of 15 years, he established a military dictatorship inspired by Italian fascism, promoted Thai nationalism, and aligned the country with Imperial Japan during World War II. Phibun later shifted towards anti-communism in the Cold War, faced political instability, and eventually attempted to transition Thailand towards electoral democracy before being overthrown in 1957.

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 2008. Throughout his career, he held various positions in the Thai government and was known for his strong leadership style. Samak Sundaravej was involved in shaping policies and making decisions that impacted the country during his time in office.

Chatichai Choonhavan was a prominent figure in Thai politics, serving as a Thai army officer, diplomat, and politician. He was the chairman of the Thai Nation Party from 1986 to 1991 and held the position of Prime Minister of Thailand from August 1988 until the 1991 coup d'état. Choonhavan's career was marked by his leadership roles in both the military and government, showcasing his dedication to public service and his influence in shaping Thailand's political landscape during his tenure.

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 amassed wealth in the construction industry. Banharn represented Suphan Buri as a Member of Parliament and held various cabinet positions in different governments. He later 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 banned 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 as the thirteenth Prime Minister of Thailand. With a background in academia, he made significant contributions to Thai politics and governance. Additionally, he showcased his acting skills by portraying the Prime Minister of a fictional country in a popular motion picture. His multifaceted career reflected his deep involvement in both politics and the arts.

Khuang Aphaiwong was a prominent political figure in Thailand, known for founding the Democrat Party and serving as the Prime Minister three times. He held office during various periods in the mid-20th century, demonstrating his leadership and influence in Thai politics. Through his tenure, he made significant contributions to the country's governance and policies. Khuang Aphaiwong's professional life was characterized by his dedication to public service and his efforts to shape the political landscape of Thailand during a transformative period.