Srettha Thavisin
Srettha Thavisin | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 15, 1962 Bangkok, Thailand |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, politician |
| Known for | 30th Prime Minister of Thailand (2023–2024), co-founder of Sansiri |
Srettha Thavisin (, , ; born 15 February 1962) is a Thai entrepreneur and ex-politician who held the position of the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand from 2023 until his removal by the Constitutional Court on 14 August 2024. In 1988, he co-established Sansiri, which propelled him to billionaire status and established him as a prominent figure in Thailand’s real estate industry.
Throughout his nearly one-year term as prime minister, Srettha prioritized economic strategies aimed at revitalizing Thailand’s economy, with a strong emphasis on boosting tourism and enhancing Thai cultural influence globally. He advanced the digital wallet scheme and embarked on international diplomatic missions to draw foreign investment. Nevertheless, detractors accused him of being a "puppet" influenced by hidden powers. His decision to appoint Pichit Chuenban to his cabinet ultimately resulted in his removal by the Constitutional Court in August 2024.
Early life and education
Born on 15 February 1962 in Bangkok, Thailand, Srettha Thavisin is the sole offspring of Captain Amnuay Thavisin and Chodchoy Thavisin (née Jutrakul; 1928–2024). His lineage connects to five influential Thai Chinese business families: Yip in Tsoi, Chakkapak, Jutrakul, Lamsam, and Buranasiri. Following his father's passing in 1966, he was raised solely by his mother.
Srettha completed his primary education at the school affiliated with Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok before relocating to the United States for his secondary schooling. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and subsequently earned an MBA focused on Finance from Claremont Graduate University.
Real estate
After finishing his studies at Claremont Graduate University in 1986, Srettha started working at Procter & Gamble as an assistant product manager for four years. In 1988, he co-founded Sansiri, which emerged as one of Thailand’s foremost real estate developers, successfully delivering over 400 residential developments.
In connection with the 2013 launch of the Thailand 2020: Thailand's New Step World Expo, which highlighted government investments worth ฿2 trillion, Srettha encouraged Sansiri’s involvement, recognizing its significance for the property market. Despite public apprehensions regarding financing and debt levels, he endorsed this initiative and later championed similar digital economy projects during his time as prime minister.
Sansiri continued to grow under Srettha’s guidance even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, he completed a notable land purchase near Lumphini Park in Bangkok for ฿3.9 million per square wah (approximately 4m²), marking one of Thailand’s most expensive land transactions. That same year, he acquired a 15% shareholding in XSpring Capital Public Company Limited.
In preparation for his political candidacy in 2023 and in compliance with Thai electoral regulations prohibiting officials from holding corporate shares, Srettha transferred his entire 4.4% ownership stake in Sansiri to his daughter Chanada Thavisin on 8 March.
Business disputes
On 17 February 2012, Srettha acknowledged having a meeting with Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Kittiratt Na Ranong at the Four Seasons Hotel on 8 February to deliberate on Thailand's economic conditions. This encounter became controversial after Akeyuth Anchanbutr alleged an assault by an individual connected to Thaksin, triggering a scandal implicating both Srettha and Yingluck. The main opposition Democrat Party demanded an investigation, accusing Yingluck of prematurely revealing flood prevention strategies before a provincial visit and calling on the National Anti-Corruption Commission to examine Srettha’s financial holdings.
On 17 August 2023, Chuwit Kamolvisit lodged a complaint with police deputy commissioner Surachate Hakparn, requesting scrutiny of Srettha’s 2019 Bangkok land acquisition, accusing him and Sansiri of evading taxes. In retaliation, Srettha initiated a ฿500 million defamation suit against Chuwit over statements made at an August 3 press event.
Political trajectory
Throughout the 2013–2014 Thai political crisis, Srettha stood against the People's Democratic Reform Committee. Following the 2014 military coup, he complied with a summons from the National Council for Peace and Order. He maintained political affiliations with former prime ministers Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra. In the 2023 general election, Srettha was among three prime ministerial nominees representing the Pheu Thai Party, alongside Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and ex-justice minister Chaikasem Nitisiri.
2023 general election
In November 2022, Srettha became a member of Pheu Thai. On 5 April during the 2023 election campaign, he was announced as one of three prime ministerial contenders for the party. Opinion polls placed him behind Paetongtarn in popularity rankings.
He kicked off his campaign in Bangkok’s Khlong Toei district and delivered his inaugural speech in Phichit province. By mid-April, he declared that Pheu Thai would not enter coalitions with either Palang Pracharath or United Thai Nation, citing their involvement in the 2014 coup.
After the election held on 14 May, Pheu Thai secured second place behind the Move Forward Party and proceeded to form a coalition including Move Forward and six additional parties. However, Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat was unable to obtain sufficient parliamentary votes in July rounds, resulting in stalled nominations.
Following Move Forward’s unsuccessful government formation efforts, Pheu Thai initially sought to build a coalition excluding Move Forward but later broadened its alliance on 7 August to incorporate the Bhumjaithai Party. Subsequently, this coalition expanded further to include Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation Parties—a significant strategic reversal from earlier commitments. Srettha justified this decision as essential.
The Constitutional Court of Thailand dismissed a challenge petition regarding Parliament’s rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat. A new parliamentary vote was scheduled for 22 August. During this session, Srettha outlined his policy vision and answered questions. His candidacy received backing from Thaksin Shinawatra.
Srettha was elected as Thailand’s 30th Prime Minister of Thailand after being nominated by Pheu Thai. In a joint assembly of the House of Representatives (Thailand) and Senate of Thailand, he garnered 482 votes out of 728 cast.
Government formation
On 22 August 2023, Srettha was chosen as Thailand's prime minister during a joint session of parliament. His primary responsibilities included assembling a cabinet and outlining policy directions for the forthcoming four years. The next day, King Vajiralongkorn formally appointed him as the country's 30th Prime Minister.[1]
Srettha officially took the oath of office as prime minister and finance minister on 5 September at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall within Dusit Palace, Bangkok.[2] His cabinet comprised 34 ministers representing six coalition parties, including several holdovers from Prayut Chan-o-cha’s previous government.[3]
In a cabinet reshuffle in April 2024, Srettha stepped down from the role of finance minister.[4] He was replaced by his advisor and former energy sector executive, Pichai Chunhavajira.[5]
Domestic affairs
On 8 September, Srettha embarked on visits to northeastern provinces including Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai—areas known as strongholds of the Pheu Thai Party. Accompanied by several ministers, his style recalled that of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
During his stop in Khon Kaen, he inspected the Ubol Ratana Dam, which was suffering from drought conditions, and stressed that agriculture would be a top government focus with an aim to increase farmers' output by 50%. In Nong Khai, talks were held concerning improvements to shipping connections between Thailand and China.
Economy
On 11 September, Srettha submitted the cabinet’s policy statement to Parliament, detailing the administration’s economic strategies. While economic, labor, and business sectors had high hopes for the plan, opposition parties and media outlets criticized it. Sirikanya Tansakun, deputy leader and chief economist of the Move Forward Party, pointed out its vagueness, lack of measurable targets, and absence of concrete action plans, casting doubt on its capacity to effectively steer economic policy.
Srettha characterized the economy as being in a "crisis," attributing this to interest rates at their highest level in ten years that negatively impact businesses. He called on the Bank of Thailand to lower rates. However, the Bank’s Governor disagreed with this crisis portrayal, expressing doubts about short-term stimulus efforts and highlighting structural obstacles as the fundamental constraints on growth.
Srettha advocated for a 25-basis point reduction from the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). Nevertheless, the MPC voted 5–2 to hold the one-day repurchase rate steady at 2.50%, citing slower growth than anticipated and dependence on domestic consumption. Structural issues—particularly waning competitiveness—were identified as key growth barriers. Despite these differing views, Srettha emphasized the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary policies while respecting the autonomy of the central bank.
Infrastructure
The Thai Canal, with an estimated cost of ฿1 trillion, represents a crucial element of the Southern Economic Corridor. The development is divided into two stages, with the initial phase targeted for completion by 2030 and the second phase by 2039. Once operational, it aims to accommodate up to 20 million cargo containers annually.
The cabinet gave its approval on 16 October. During his attendance at the APEC summit and the 2023 Belt and Road Forum, Prime Minister Srettha actively sought investment from American and Chinese stakeholders to support the project's advancement.
Despite its strategic importance, the initiative has encountered notable opposition domestically. Srettha acknowledged deficiencies in how the government communicated with both foreign investors and the Thai population, highlighting a trust deficit and a disconnect between the project's economic benefits and public understanding.
Tourism
Prime Minister Srettha took decisive steps to rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism industry by waiving visa requirements for visitors from China and Kazakhstan starting 25 September, coinciding with Golden Week and Chinese New Year. Together with Chinese ambassador Han Zhiqiang, he welcomed the inaugural Shanghai–Suvarnabhumi flight under this new policy. The visa exemption for Kazakh travelers was valid until 29 February 2024, while the waiver for Chinese tourists was extended following a new agreement effective from 4 March 2024.
On 17 October, the cabinet approved extending visa-free entry for Russian tourists from 30 days to 90 days, aligning with Russia’s winter season and Thailand’s peak tourist period. Russia ranks as Thailand’s fifth largest source of tourists globally and is the leading European market; this extension covers November through April 2024 and was announced during Srettha’s discussion with President Vladimir Putin.
Visa-free access was also granted to visitors from India and Taiwan between 10 November 2023 and 10 May 2024; India holds the position as Thailand’s fourth largest tourism market.
These visa relaxations helped international arrivals reach over 80% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels during peak season.
At the iBusiness Forum in Bangkok on 16 February, Srettha learned from Anschutz Entertainment Group that Taylor Swift would not be performing in Thailand due to an exclusive arrangement limiting her Eras Tour concerts within ASEAN to Singapore. In response, Srettha pledged to position Thailand as a premier regional destination for major concerts.
Strengthening the Thai passport
Enhancing the global strength of the Thai passport was a key focus for Srettha, whose passport ranked 52nd on The Passport Index in 2024. During discussions in Switzerland with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, he explored opportunities to simplify European entry procedures for Thai nationals. Furthermore, during German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s visit to Thailand in January 2024, Srettha sought backing for visa exemptions within Schengen countries. Thailand also aims to lengthen the current Schengen visa exemption period beyond 30 days.
To bolster these efforts, Thailand intends to collaborate with Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia in negotiations with the European Union (EU).
On 14 February, Australian Governor-General David Hurley expressed willingness to consider establishing a reciprocal visa exemption arrangement between Australia and Thailand during his visit.
Digital Wallet Program
Prior to the 2023 election, the Pheu Thai party introduced a digital wallet proposal aimed at Thai residents aged 16 and above, offering a government-sponsored payment of ฿10,000 per person. Beneficiaries are required to spend these funds within a 4-kilometer radius of their registered address and within a six-month timeframe. This initiative targets 54.8 million qualified individuals and demands a government budget allocation of ฿560 billion.
After winning the election, Srettha endorsed the initiative, emphasizing its importance in revitalizing Thailand’s economy while pledging to take public opinions into account. Nevertheless, concerns were raised by economists, including experts from the Bank of Thailand and former Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij, who questioned the program’s sustainability and highlighted a lack of comprehensive planning.
An ad-hoc committee was established to refine the proposal further. Originally planned for rollout in February 2024, the launch was deferred to May 2024. Since September, Srettha has also advocated for lowering electricity and fuel prices within his cabinet’s agenda.
Public opinion has been divided; an October 2023 survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) revealed that 55% of respondents were moderately satisfied with the cabinet’s performance, whereas 40% expressed dissatisfaction.
On 10 November 2023, Srettha revealed intentions to secure ฿500 billion in borrowing to fund the program, marking a departure from previous plans that relied on annual budget allocations or loans from the Government Savings Bank. This decision attracted considerable criticism for straying from earlier fiscal approaches.
In January 2024, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat indicated that the program’s implementation might be postponed beyond May. Despite doubts, Srettha remained optimistic about the scheme’s efficacy based on data analysis and sought to expedite consultations with Julapun.
By 15 July 2024, Srettha announced that registration for eligible businesses and individuals would commence in August.
Electric Vehicle Sector
On 21 September 2023, Srettha engaged in talks with Elon Musk regarding potential investments by Tesla aimed at enhancing Thailand’s electric vehicle industry. This initiative aligns with Srettha’s broader strategy to attract prominent investors such as Tesla. Further discussions were scheduled for November. Following his visit to Malaysia on 11 October, Srettha reported that Proton and its Chinese partner Geely were exploring plans to establish EV manufacturing facilities in Thailand. Moreover, Thailand entered into a partnership with Toyota to collaboratively advance its domestic electric vehicle sector.
Since the inception of Srettha’s administration, Thailand’s EV market has experienced substantial growth, prompting the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) to set up its regional automotive hub in the country. In January 2024, two significant lithium reserves with high lithium content—averaging approximately 0.4%—were identified in Phang Nga province. Experts from Chulalongkorn University noted that these concentrations surpass many global deposits. However, ongoing debates among scientists and officials continue regarding the reserves’ actual impact due to differences in mineral composition, such as lepidolite compared to pure lithium content.
Cannabis
In June 2022, Thailand took the step to decriminalise cannabis. During the 2023 elections, Pheu Thai and Srettha opposed full cannabis liberalisation, advocating instead for its use to be confined strictly to medical applications. This position contrasted with that of the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), which supports broader cannabis legalisation. Although they entered a coalition with BJT, Srettha committed to implementing tighter cannabis regulations within six months.
A draft bill aimed at restricting cannabis use was rejected in November 2023. By May 2024, Srettha announced intentions to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic by the end of the year, limiting it exclusively to medicinal purposes due to concerns about its effects on the nation’s future. The Ministry of Public Health endorsed this reclassification plan and forwarded it to the Narcotics Control Authority in July. Nevertheless, on 23 July, BJT leader Anutin Charnvirakul revealed that coalition members agreed to regulate cannabis through new legislation rather than reinstating its narcotic status. This divergence has generated friction between Pheu Thai and BJT within their coalition.
Guns
Following the shooting incident at Siam Paragon in Bangkok on 3 October, Srettha observed a moment of silence at the location and highlighted the necessity of preventative actions, reassuring foreign diplomats about enhanced security measures for tourists. In response, authorities launched a nationwide operation that confiscated over 2,000 illegal firearms along with nearly 75,000 rounds of ammunition, leading to 1,593 arrests by 12 October. Additionally, the Interior Minister imposed a suspension on firearm trading, imports, and the issuance of new permits.
Military
Srettha characterized Pheu Thai’s military approach not as "reform" but rather as a "joint development" effort between civilian authorities and military leadership. After the December 2022 sinking of the Thai corvette HTMS Sukhothai, concerns were raised by the Joint United States Military Advisory Group Thailand (JUSMAGTHAI) regarding salvage operations involving a Thai contractor working alongside Chinese entities. While awaiting approval, Royal Thai Navy (RTN) Chief Admiral Adung Phan-iam cautioned that U.S. involvement could cause delays. Following two warnings from the U.S. and in compliance with bilateral agreements, RTN cancelled the salvage contract awarded to a company using Chinese equipment.
Environment
Prior to Srettha’s administration, tackling PM 2.5 air pollution and supporting communities dependent on natural resources remained significant challenges. His environmental agenda was presented to Parliament as medium- to long-term strategic plans.
On 6 October 2023, Srettha participated in the ESG Symposium 2023: Accelerating Changes towards a Low Carbon Society held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, where he outlined his vision for an economy grounded in sustainability through community engagement, human rights protection, equality advancement, and climate action. Subsequently, at the Sustainability Forum 2024 in Bangkok, he reiterated Thailand’s dedication to sustainable development goals, highlighting efforts to lower electricity costs and encourage household solar power adoption.
On 29 November 2023, he convened a meeting in Chiang Mai focused on regional environmental issues such as forest fires, haze pollution, and PM 2.5 levels. During a follow-up visit on 11 January 2024, he endorsed the Clean Air bill and observed improvements in air quality compared with the previous year.
Nonetheless, the Chiang Mai Administrative Court found both Srettha and the National Environment Board negligent in addressing PM 2.5 haze problems in Northern Thailand during the prior year. In reaction, Srettha scheduled a government session aimed at complying with the court’s directive and committed to submitting a comprehensive PM 2.5 dust management strategy within the stipulated 90-day timeframe.
Education
Prior to assuming the role of prime minister, Srettha championed efforts to diminish disparities in education.[6] His vision was to cultivate a generation of well-informed, ethically grounded young individuals who appreciate teamwork as essential for societal advancement.[6] Under his leadership, the government pledged to establish Thailand’s inaugural comprehensive database tracking school dropouts,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name with the goal of ensuring every child has access to education.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He placed strong emphasis on enhancing skill sets and increasing investments in education to elevate living standards and foster civic responsibility.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Foreign affairs
On 21 September, Srettha conducted a virtual discussion with Elon Musk in New York City centered on electric vehicle development and prospective Tesla investments in Thailand.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Additionally, he engaged with top executives from Estee Lauder, Google, and Microsoft to encourage foreign capital inflows.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He highlighted Thailand’s standing compared to Vietnam concerning free trade agreements.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name By 24 September, expectations were set for $5 billion in investments from Google, Microsoft, and Tesla.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
During the 78th UN General Assembly on 22 September, Srettha underscored the importance of cooperation and strengthening democratic institutions.[7] He also met with officials from the New York Stock Exchange to deliberate on economic strategies and took part in the ceremonial bell-ringing event.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Srettha spearheaded Thailand’s campaign for the ASEAN seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2025–2027 term.[7]
In October, Srettha traveled to Hong Kong, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Laos, Japan, and other ASEAN countries to promote investment opportunities and reinforce bilateral partnerships. Key engagements included:
- A meeting with Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.Cite error: The opening
<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad name - Conversations with Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah focusing on food security and expanding Thai exports.Cite error: The opening
<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad name - Discussions with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim covering investment, trade, tourism, security matters, and efforts to secure Thai hostages held by Hamas.Cite error: The opening
<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad name - Talks with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong regarding renewable energy initiatives and food security challenges.Cite error: The opening
<ref>tag is malformed or has a bad name - Participation in the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing; meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin to enhance trade and cultural exchanges; extending an invitation for Putin’s visit to Thailand in 2024.Cite error: The opening
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- Announcing plans for constructing a sixth friendship bridge connecting Thailand and Laos.[8]
During his December trip to Japan for the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Srettha temporarily lifted visa requirements for Japanese business visitors to enhance bilateral relations.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Discussions encompassed deepening cooperation on electric vehicles and backing climate initiatives like the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC).[9] He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to promoting peace efforts in Myanmar.[9] A meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida concentrated on expanding collaboration within the electric vehicle sector.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
At the World Economic Forum held in Davos in January 2024,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Srettha promoted the land bridge mega-project alongside Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He introduced the 'Seamless ASEAN' initiative aimed at uniting tourist destinations across Southeast Asia within five to ten years.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name His meetings included discussions with representatives from Adani Group expressing interest,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates exploring plans for a data center in Thailand,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name and DP World CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem committing to further negotiations regarding the land bridge project.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name After returning home, Srettha reported favorable international reception toward his administration’s programs.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
On 25 January, Srettha hosted German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier—the first German presidential visit to Thailand in over two decades—focusing discussions on trade, investment, climate change initiatives, and vocational education enhancement.[10][11] Steinmeier commended Thailand’s democratic advancements and pledged increased investments in electric vehicles positioning Thailand as a regional hub.[12]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
On 4 February 2024, Srettha was guest of honor at Sri Lanka’s Independence Day celebrations amid its ongoing economic difficulties.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The visit concluded with signing a Free Trade Agreement replacing a pact from 1950,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name anticipated to boost Thai exports including automotive components, textiles, machinery, steel products, processed foods, and animal feed.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Additionally, an MoU was signed between Thai and Sri Lankan gem authorities.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Following his return, Srettha encouraged PTT executives to back Thai startups and invest in Sri Lanka’s floating solar power project.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
On 7 February 2024, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited Thailand for discussions covering transportation, trade, investment, and joint development of natural resources within disputed maritime zones.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name This marked Hun Manet’s inaugural visit as Cambodia's leader aimed at fortifying bilateral relations. Srettha stressed equitable treatment and economic support for Cambodian workers residing in Thailand.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Recent detentions of Cambodian opposition figures in Bangkok appeared aimed at curbing protests against Hun Manet.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Hun Manet expressed gratitude toward Srettha for preventing external interference through Thai territory.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Both leaders set targets to increase bilateral trade from 8 billion baht in 2023 to 15 billion baht in 2024.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Discussions also addressed development of contested offshore gas and oil reserves estimated at 11 trillion cubic feet.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Hun Manet planned meetings with King Vajiralongkorn alongside participation in a Thailand-Cambodia business forum. Five MoUs were signed during this visit.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Foreign policy
In reaction to the Gaza war, Srettha publicly condemned Hamas for abducting Thai nationals and instructed the Royal Thai Air Force to collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate their evacuation.
Myanmar civil war
After the events of January 2024 during Operation 1027, Srettha's administration contemplated delivering humanitarian assistance to Myanmar in alignment with the Asean Five-Point Consensus.
Dismissal
In May 2024, a group of 40 senators appointed by the military submitted a petition to the Constitutional Court seeking Srettha’s removal due to ethical breaches connected to his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former bribery convict, as minister within the Prime Minister's Office. Pichit stepped down on 21 May. Subsequently, on 14 August, the court ruled to remove Srettha for serious ethical violations, marking him as the fourth Thai prime minister ousted by judicial ruling in the past 16 years. Although surprised by the verdict, Srettha stated he would "respect" the court’s decision.
Social issues
Srettha is recognized as a supporter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, exemplified in 2010 when he donned a red shirt featuring Thaksin's likeness. He openly criticized then-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s management of the COVID-19 crisis and backed the 2020–2021 pro-democracy demonstrations, calling on UNICEF to advocate for peaceful treatment of protesters. Despite initial hesitation toward alliances with United Thai Nation Party and Palang Pracharath Party, his government later incorporated members from these parties.
Known for his cultural liberalism, Srettha opposes mandatory military service and champions environmental conservation as well as LGBTQ rights. Nevertheless, he avoided pushing reforms on Thailand’s stringent lèse-majesté laws to preserve coalition unity. In 2024, he adopted a stricter approach on narcotics by reinstating cannabis as a criminal offense.
Economics
During a 2023 discussion with FAROSE, Srettha articulated his philosophy of "capitalism with empathy." Transitioning from CEO and entrepreneur to politician, he promotes blending capitalist principles with compassion for disadvantaged populations. He stressed that addressing economic gaps and social inequities requires empathetic policies. Representing Pheu Thai, he committed to enhancing economic growth and alleviating poverty by increasing the minimum wage and launching a ฿10,000 'digital wallet' initiative.
Personal life
Srettha is commonly known by his nickname Nid (, , ).[13] Standing tall at , he was ASEAN’s tallest leader and ranked third worldwide during his leadership period.
He is married to entrepreneur Pakpilai Thavisin, with whom he has two sons, Napat and Warat, and a daughter named Chananda.[14] His mother, Chodchoy, passed away on 21 July 2024; her funeral was held in early August with royal patronage.
An avid collector of vintage travel trunks, including pieces from Louis Vuitton,[13] Srettha is also a supporter of Liverpool F.C. and contributes to Sansiri Academy, an institution dedicated to training Thai football talent.[15] He maintains an active presence on social media platform X.[16]
As reported by the NACC on 28 December 2023, his net worth was estimated at approximately ฿659 million, which includes a 1963 Aston Martin DB5 valued at ฿50 million. His yearly earnings were around ฿153 million.[17]
Honours
- Knight Grand Cordon of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant (awarded in 2024)
- Knight Grand Cordon of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand (conferred in 2024)
References
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