On Sunday, August 18th, Paetongtarn Shinawatra was sworn in as the country’s youngest and second female leader at the age of 37. Her appointment follows a period of political instability after her predecessor was ousted by a court for ethics violations.
Paetongtarn is not just any politician; she is a member of the influential Shinawatra family, which has played a central role in Thai politics for decades. Paetongtarn is known for her strong support of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Who Is Paetongtarn Shinawatra?
Paetongtarn’s rise to power is significant for many reasons. She is the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a billionaire and former prime minister who held the position from 2001 until 2006. Thaksin was ousted in a military coup and spent 15 years in self-imposed exile before returning to Thailand last year.
His return has sparked speculation that he will play a more active role in the country’s politics. The Shinawatra family has long been a polarising force in Thailand, with both strong supporters and fierce opponents.
Paetongtarn has the difficult task of restoring order to a country split by political unrest for many years. Given how many people in Thailand either like or despise the Shinawatras, her family’s heritage is both a source of strength and possible trouble.
As Paetongtarn assumes the position of prime minister, which was previously occupied by her father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra, who was removed from office in 2014, her leadership will probably be widely watched.
Is Shinawatra Known as a Crypto Bull?
Paetongtarn is well-known for her positive advocacy of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Her father Thaksin has been a vocal supporter of these technologies’ ability to transform countries and generate new riches, especially for aspiring young people.
He has frequently drawn comparisons between the emergence of blockchain technology and the early internet era, speculating that it may generate “new millionaires” and spark a technological revolution.
Thaksin had an impact on his daughter’s political and economic opinions. Both have voiced hope over how cryptocurrencies will influence the future. Thaksin has encouraged his followers to seize the opportunities presented by the crypto world, but he also advises caution, emphasizing the need for solid business skills alongside technical knowledge.
His remarks are indicative of a more widespread view that blockchain technology has enormous promise for anyone who can work through its complexities, even though it is complicated.
Paetongtarn might keep pushing for the nation to embrace cryptocurrency. Many supporters think Thailand might see big changes in its stance on digital currencies, possibly even moving towards embracing crypto as legal cash, if her leadership takes the way her father desires.