Thailand's New Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Takes Office Amid Economic Turmoil

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn has endorsed Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister. At 37, she becomes Thailand's youngest and second female PM, succeeding Srettha Thavisin. Paetongtarn faces challenges, including reviving the economy and delivering on Pheu Thai's 500 billion baht digital wallet cash handout program.

In a pivotal political shift, Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn has officially endorsed Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister, following her election by parliament just days ago. The formal approval was read by House of Representatives Secretary Apat Sukhanand during a ceremony in Bangkok.

Paetongtarn, donning official attire, knelt before a portrait of King Vajiralongkorn to express her gratitude. She declared her commitment to collaborative governance, promising to heed diverse opinions to guide the nation toward stability.

At 37, Paetongtarn becomes Thailand's youngest prime minister, stepping into office shortly after the court-ordered dismissal of ally Srettha Thavisin. Despite no prior government experience, she ascended with overwhelming support, but now faces daunting tasks such as addressing an ailing economy and fulfilling Pheu Thai's major campaign promise of a 500 billion baht digital wallet program.

(With inputs from agencies.)