Srettha Thavisin

2.1. Childhood and family background

Srettha Thavisin was born on 15 February 1962, in Bangkok, Thailand. He is the only child of Captain Amnuay Thavisin and Chodchoy Thavisin (née Jutrakul). His father died when Srettha was three years old in 1966, and he was subsequently raised by his single mother. His paternal family has Hokkien Chinese and Vietnamese ancestry, while his maternal grandmother's lineage traces back to Hakka Chinese immigrants from Indonesia.

Srettha's family lineage is connected to five prominent Thai Chinese business dynasties: Yip in Tsoi, Chakkapak, Jutrakul, Lamsam, and Buranasiri. He is also related to Khunying Pimpa Suntarangkul, the wife of General Prachuab Suntarangkul, a former Police Chief and Interior Minister. During his childhood, Srettha frequently experienced illness, and it was discovered that one of his kidneys was not functioning properly, necessitating surgery to remove it. This experience led him to prioritize maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including consistently eating vegetables before his main meals. He has described his personality as serious and intense, yet also compromising.

2.2. Education

Srettha completed his secondary education at Prasarnmit Demonstration School of Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok. He pursued higher education in the United States, first earning a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. He then obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Further advancing his academic credentials, he earned a Master of Business Administration, specializing in Finance, from Claremont Graduate University.

3.1. Real estate

Srettha began his professional career at Procter & Gamble as an assistant product manager, a position he held for four years after graduating from Claremont Graduate University in 1986. His entrepreneurial path began in 1988 when he co-founded Sansiri with his cousins, Apichart Jutrakul and Wanchak Buranasiri. Sansiri quickly grew to become one of Thailand's leading real estate developers, with Srettha's leadership guiding the company to successfully develop over 400 residential projects. His primary responsibilities at Sansiri included strategic planning, management, and driving the company's growth in line with the board's plans.

In 2013, Srettha expressed support for the "Thailand 2020: Thailand's New Step" World Expo, an initiative launched by then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to showcase the government's proposed 2.00 T THB in investments. After visiting the expo, Srettha recommended that his Sansiri colleagues also attend, recognizing its potential impact on the real estate sector. Despite public concerns regarding the project's financing and potential debt, Srettha voiced his support, later writing favorably about the 2020 Expo in early 2019, drawing parallels to his advocacy for a digital wallet scheme during his premiership.

Under Srettha's management, Sansiri continued to grow, even during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand. A notable development in 2020 was his acquisition of a land parcel at the corner of Sarasin Road near Lumphini Park in Bangkok. This purchase, costing 3.90 M THB per square wah (approximately 43 ft^{2 (4 m2)}), was one of the most expensive land acquisitions in Thai history. Additionally, in the same year, Srettha acquired a 15% stake in XSpring Capital Public Company Limited.

His extensive business career was put on hold when he decided to enter electoral politics in 2023. Due to regulations in Thai electoral laws prohibiting elected officials from owning or holding shares in companies, Srettha transferred all his shares, representing 4.4% of Sansiri, to his daughter, Chanada Thavisin, on 8 March 2023.

3.2. Business controversies

Srettha Thavisin's business career was not without controversy, attracting public and political scrutiny on several occasions.

On 17 February 2012, Srettha admitted to attending a meeting with Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong at the Four Seasons Hotel on 8 February, where they discussed Thailand's financial situation. This meeting became controversial after Akeyuth Anchanbutr claimed he was attacked by someone working for Thaksin Shinawatra. The incident led to a scandal for both Srettha and Yingluck. The Democrat Party, then the main opposition, called for an investigation into the meeting. Their spokesman, Chavanond Intarakomalyasut, accused Yingluck of disclosing details of her government's flood prevention projects to Srettha, ahead of her scheduled tour of flood-affected provinces. Additionally, deputy spokeswoman Mallika Boonmeetrakul urged the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate Srettha's assets.

More recently, on 17 August 2023, Chuwit Kamolvisit filed a complaint with Deputy Commissioner-General of Police Surachate Hakparn, requesting an investigation into Srettha's 2019 land purchase in Bangkok. Chuwit accused Srettha and Sansiri of tax evasion related to this transaction. In response to these allegations, Srettha filed a defamation lawsuit against Chuwit, seeking 500.00 M THB in damages, specifically citing comments made during a press conference on 3 August. Sansiri Public Company Limited's Chief Operating Officer, Uthai Uthaisangsuk, clarified that the land purchase agreement stipulated that the seller was responsible for all taxes, fees, and transfer costs, and that it was the seller's legal obligation to pay these taxes.

4.1. Entry into politics

Srettha's entry into politics began with his engagement in the Thai political landscape during periods of unrest. During the 2013-2014 Thai political crisis, he expressed opposition to the People's Democratic Reform Committee. Following the 2014 coup, he complied with a summons from the National Council for Peace and Order, reporting to the Royal Thai Army auditorium.

Srettha maintained political connections with former prime ministers Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra. In 2010, his support for Thaksin was notably demonstrated when he wore a red shirt featuring Thaksin's face, coinciding with his appointment as head of the Royal Bangkok Polo Club's football team. He also publicly criticized then-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand. Additionally, Srettha showed support for the pro-democracy protests that occurred from 2020 to 2021, calling on UNICEF to urge the government to avoid violence against protesters.

In November 2022, Srettha announced his intention to formally join the Pheu Thai Party. On 27 February 2023, Pheu Thai appointed him as chief advisor to Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who heads the Pheu Thai family. In this role, he was tasked with providing advice or carrying out assignments as directed by Paetongtarn.

4.2. 2023 general election campaign

For the 2023 Thai general election, Srettha was named one of Pheu Thai's three prime ministerial candidates on 5 April 2023, alongside Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former Attorney General. Throughout the campaign, polls frequently showed him trailing behind Paetongtarn in the public's preference for prime minister.

Srettha launched his campaign in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district and delivered his inaugural campaign speech in Phichit province. In early April, he announced that if he became prime minister, he would implement a 10.00 K THB digital wallet scheme for all Thai citizens aged 16 and above. Later, during a speech in Loei province in mid-April, he explicitly stated that Pheu Thai would not consider forming a coalition with the Palang Pracharath Party and the United Thai Nation Party, citing their roles in the 2014 coup.

Following the election on 14 May, Pheu Thai emerged as the party with the second-highest number of seats, behind the Move Forward Party. Initially, Pheu Thai formed a coalition with Move Forward and six other parties, signing a memorandum of understanding. However, in the first round of parliamentary voting on 13 July, Pita Limjaroenrat, the Move Forward Party leader, failed to secure enough votes to become prime minister. His second nomination was subsequently blocked on procedural grounds on 19 July, leading Move Forward to relinquish its right to lead government formation.

Pheu Thai then took the lead in forming a government. This new coalition initially excluded the Move Forward Party but expanded on 7 August to include the Bhumjaithai Party. In a notable shift from their earlier election stance, the coalition further expanded to incorporate the Palang Pracharath Party and United Thai Nation Party. Srettha described this expansion, which contradicted earlier election promises, as a necessary strategic move to break the political deadlock.

Subsequently, the Constitutional Court dismissed a petition by the ombudsman questioning the constitutionality of Parliament's rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat. A new round of parliamentary voting for prime minister was scheduled for 22 August. During this session, Srettha delivered a speech to the Parliament, outlining his vision and goals should he become prime minister, and also responded to questions from Members of Parliament and senators. His candidacy received strong support from Thaksin Shinawatra.

Srettha was elected as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand on 22 August 2023, following his nomination by the Pheu Thai Party. In a special joint sitting of the House of Representatives and the Senate, he secured 482 votes out of 728, exceeding the required majority. He became the first prime minister to receive support from members of both the 2006 and 2014 coup councils. The following day, King Vajiralongkorn officially appointed Srettha as the 30th Prime Minister. On 24 August, Srettha met with the outgoing Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-o-cha, at Government House, marking the first time since the Siamese Revolution of 1932 that a newly appointed prime minister met with a caretaker prime minister to facilitate a transition.

Following his appointment, Srettha undertook his first field visits as prime minister to Phuket and Phang Nga, traveling in his capacity as a Pheu Thai party member to listen to private sector concerns and promote tourism. He also held meetings with leading businessmen, including executives from SCB, ThaiBev, CP Group, Ch. Karnchang, King Power, WHA Corporation, and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he met with Supattanapong Punmeechaow and M.L. Chayotid Kridakon, key economic figures from the United Thai Nation Party. After these discussions, Srettha announced his intention to immediately reduce electricity and diesel costs following the first cabinet meeting.

5.1. Government formation

Srettha was elected as Thailand's next prime minister by a joint sitting of parliament on 22 August 2023. His immediate responsibilities included the formation of his cabinet and the presentation of his policies for the forthcoming four years to parliament. The following day, King Vajiralongkorn officially appointed Srettha as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand.

On 5 September, Srettha was sworn in as prime minister and minister of finance by the King. The ceremony took place at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Dusit Palace, Bangkok. The new cabinet formed by Srettha was composed of 34 ministers representing six parties within the governing coalition, including several ministers who had served under the previous administration of Prayut Chan-o-cha. After the swearing-in ceremony, Srettha affirmed his commitment to immediately begin work with his cabinet. He also stated that his government would restore a strong, efficient, and transparent rule of law, based on public participation, and strive to create equality to transform Thailand into a secure, prosperous, and sustainable nation.

On 13 September, Srettha established the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, with himself as chairman and Paetongtarn Shinawatra as vice-chairman, to promote Thailand's cultural influence. He also appointed Nalinee Taveesin as the Thai Trade Representative. Two days later, on 15 September, he appointed an advisory committee to the Prime Minister, with Kittiratt Na-Ranong, former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister in the Yingluck Shinawatra government, as its chairman.

On 3 October 2023, the cabinet approved the establishment of two more committees, both chaired by Srettha: the policy committee for the Digital wallet scheme and the organizing committee for the King's 6th cycle birthday celebration in July 2024. In March 2024, the cabinet appointed a government manpower policy committee, with Srettha serving as vice-chairman in his capacity as Minister of Finance.

Srettha stepped down as finance minister in April 2024 during a cabinet reshuffle. He was succeeded by his advisor and former energy executive, Pichai Chunhavajira.

5.2. Domestic affairs

Srettha Thavisin's domestic agenda as Prime Minister encompassed a wide range of initiatives aimed at economic revitalization, social development, and environmental protection.

On 8 September 2023, Srettha undertook visits to the northeastern provinces of Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai, known strongholds of support for the Pheu Thai Party. Accompanied by several ministers, his visit mirrored the approach previously taken by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. During his visits, he engaged in discussions with local residents to address regional issues.

In Khon Kaen, he visited the Ubol Ratana Dam, a site experiencing drought conditions. Srettha communicated to the media that agriculture was a key priority for his government, emphasizing plans to enhance agricultural productivity in the region with a specific goal of increasing farmers' yields by 50%. In Nong Khai, his discussions centered on shipping relations between Thailand and China.

5.3. Foreign affairs

Srettha Thavisin's foreign policy objectives focused on strengthening Thailand's economic ties, attracting foreign investment, and promoting its role in regional and international affairs.

On 21 September 2023, Srettha conducted a virtual meeting with Elon Musk in New York City. The focus of this meeting was on the electric vehicle industry and potential Tesla investments in Thailand, as part of Srettha's broader strategy to attract larger investments to bolster Thailand's electric vehicle sector. Additionally, Srettha engaged with representatives from major corporations such as Estee Lauder, Google, and Microsoft. The aim of these discussions was to enhance foreign investment in Thailand. During these meetings, Srettha remarked on Thailand's position in comparison to Vietnam in terms of free trade agreements. On 24 September, Srettha announced expectations of receiving approximately 5.00 B USD in investments from Google, Microsoft, and Tesla, in the context of his efforts to boost foreign investment in Thailand.

Srettha also made his debut speech at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 22 September. His speech emphasized Thailand's desire to collaborate with other nations and to strengthen its democracy. On the same day, he met with executives from the New York Stock Exchange, discussing the economic policies of his government. He concluded his visit by participating in the traditional bell-ringing ceremony to commence the trading session. Furthermore, Srettha actively led Thailand's effort to become the ASEAN candidate for the 2025 to 2027 term on the United Nations Human Rights Council.

On 9 October 2023, he began his visit to Hong Kong, where he met with John Lee Ka-chiu, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong. His trip to Hong Kong was part of a tour to encourage investment in Thailand. Then on 10 October, Srettha visited Brunei and was received by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah at the Istana Nurul Iman palace, where both spoke of closer Brunei-Thailand relations. They also discussed the two countries' cooperation in food security, where Thailand plans to increase its food exports to Brunei. He then flew to Kuala Lumpur to hold bilateral talks with Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, discussing bilateral relations on investment, trade, food, tourism, and security, as well as securing Thai hostages taken by Hamas. On 12 October, he then visited Singapore where he discussed renewable energy, investment, and food security with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Srettha visited China from 16 to 19 October 2023, where he attended the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing. On the sidelines of the forum on 17 October, he met with the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. Together they discussed boosting trade and cultural ties between Russia and Thailand. Srettha then invited Putin to visit Thailand in 2024, noting, "President Putin likes Phuket, I understand he travels often." According to the Bangkok Post, the invitation was accepted by Putin. Thailand is not a ratified signatory of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and is not obliged to arrest Putin following the arrest warrant issued by the ICC on 17 March 2023.

During his visit to Laos on 29 October 2023, Srettha participated in discussions focused on enhancing bilateral trade between Laos and Thailand, with an objective to reach 11.00 B USD by 2025. In addition to trade, a significant aspect of this collaboration involves infrastructure development, particularly in transportation. A key project is the construction of a new railway across the Mekong River, anticipated to be completed by at least 2026. Complementing this endeavor, Srettha and Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone inaugurated the Khamsavath station, a crucial component of a new railway line extending to Nong Khai. This new line is expected to be operational by 2024, further facilitating cross-border connectivity. In line with Srettha's administration's strategy to enhance bilateral relations and cooperation with Laos, a memorandum of understanding was signed focusing on technical assistance for the development of Laos' railway system. Alongside this, Srettha indicated an interest in increasing the purchase of clean energy from Laos. Furthermore, the two countries agreed to construct a sixth friendship bridge, further solidifying their collaborative efforts.

During his official visit to Japan from 14 to 18 December 2023, Srettha participated in the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit. To boost business relations, he temporarily waived visa requirements for Japanese business travelers for three years. Discussions with the Japanese Government included a focus on strengthening cooperation between Thailand and Japan. Srettha expressed support for initiatives like the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) and the Strategic Programme for ASEAN Climate and Environment. He also conveyed Thailand's readiness to play a leading role in ensuring peace in Myanmar, considering its geographical proximity. In a separate meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, the dialogue centered around potential collaboration in the electric vehicle sector. This discussion was a continuation of both leaders' previous expressions of intent to deepen bilateral ties, as stated during their meeting a month earlier in San Francisco.

During the 2024 World Economic Forum conference held from 15 to 19 January in Davos, Switzerland, Srettha represented his government to promote the land bridge mega project. He was joined by Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara. On 17 January, Srettha introduced the concept of 'Seamless ASEAN', envisioning it as a unified tourist destination achievable within the next 5 to 10 years. Srettha's engagements in Davos included a discussion with the Adani Group, during which he shared on social media that the group showed significant interest in the project. Additionally, he held a separate meeting with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, where they explored the possibility of establishing a Microsoft data center in Thailand. Another notable meeting was with Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the chairman and CEO of Dubai Ports World (DP World). Srettha reported that the CEO of DP World expressed a keen interest in the land bridge project and committed to sending representatives to Thailand for further discussions and location scouting. Upon returning to Thailand, Srettha described the meetings and interactions at the conference as successful, indicating positive international response to his government's initiatives.

On 25 January 2024, Srettha welcomed Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the President of Germany, marking a significant occasion in his administration. This visit was notable as it was the first time in 22 years that the German President visited Thailand. The visit, spanning from 24 to 26 January, focused on key issues such as trade, investment, climate change, and vocational education. During this visit, President Steinmeier commended the Thai civilian government for its efforts in bolstering the democratic process in Thailand. He acknowledged that while substantial changes could not be expected so soon into the administration, the initial developments were promising. Furthermore, President Steinmeier expressed a commitment to enhancing investments in Thailand's electric vehicle industry, suggesting that Thailand could become a regional hub for this sector.

Srettha participated in the Independence Day celebrations at Galle Face Green in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 4 February 2024. The visit was a response to Sri Lanka seeking Thailand's assistance in revitalizing its economy amid a challenging period. The state visit culminated when the two nations signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). As a guest of honor alongside Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, they finalized an FTA aimed at fostering economic cooperation. The FTA, replacing a prior agreement from 1950, focuses on reducing trade barriers and fostering collaboration in air services. Anticipated benefits for Thailand include enhanced exports of automotive parts, textiles, electrical appliances, machinery, steel products, paper, processed food, and animal feed. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to facilitate collaboration between the National Gem and Jewellery Authority of Thailand and The Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute of Sri Lanka. Upon returning to Thailand, Srettha held discussions with the CEO and board chairman of PTT, encouraging their support for Thai startups and investment in Sri Lanka's floating solar farm.

On 7 February 2024, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited Thailand for official discussions encompassing transport, trade, investment, and the long-stalled joint development of natural resources within their disputed maritime boundary. This marked Hun Manet's inaugural visit as the country's leader, aiming to strengthen the longstanding ties between the two nations. Srettha actively engaged in the bilateral talks, emphasizing Thailand's commitment to ensuring fair treatment and an adequate economic safety net for Cambodian workers in the country. Notably, recent events revealed the detention of Cambodian opposition figures and government critics in Bangkok, who had sought refuge in Thailand to evade arrest under Hun Sen's government, potentially indicating efforts to prevent protests against Hun Manet. Manet expressed gratitude to Srettha for preventing Thailand from being used as a base for external interference in his country's affairs. In a joint press conference, both Srettha and Manet announced their shared objective to increase bilateral trade value from 8.00 B THB in 2023 to 15.00 B THB by the following year. Given Thailand's reliance on imported energy, there was a keen interest in negotiating a deal with Cambodia to develop a disputed zone in the Gulf of Thailand, believed to harbor significant natural gas and oil deposits totaling around 11 trillion cubic feet. In addition, Hun Manet planned to meet with King Maha Vajiralongkorn and participate in a Thailand-Cambodia business forum. Thailand and Cambodia signed five Memoranda of Understanding.

5.4. Dismissal

In May 2024, 40 military-appointed senators submitted a case, which was accepted by the Constitutional Court, requesting the removal of Srettha and Pichit Chuenban under Section 170 (4) and (5) of the Constitution, which concerns the ethics of cabinet ministers. The case was in response to Srettha's appointment of Pichit, who had previously served time in jail for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials, as a minister of the Prime Minister's Office.

Pichit resigned on 21 May. On 14 August, the Constitutional Court dismissed Srettha for gross ethics violations, ruling that Srettha himself bore responsibility for the appointment. Srettha is the fourth Thai premier in 16 years to be removed by the courts. Srettha expressed surprise over the decision but stated that he would "respect" it. Following his dismissal, the coalition maintained its unity, agreeing to nominate a successor from the Pheu Thai Party. On 16 August, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter and the leader of the Pheu Thai Party, was elected as the new prime minister by the House of Representatives. She received the King's approval letter on 18 August, succeeding Srettha, with Phumtham Wechayachai serving as acting prime minister during the interim period.

6.1. Social issues

Srettha has been known for his support of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was removed from office in 2006. This support was notably demonstrated in 2010 when Srettha wore a red shirt featuring Thaksin's face, coinciding with his appointment as the head of the Royal Bangkok Polo Club's football team. Srettha's political stance has also been evident in his criticism of then-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand. Additionally, he has shown support for the pro-democracy protests that occurred from 2020 to 2021, calling on UNICEF to urge the government to avoid violence against protesters. During his 2023 election campaign, Srettha publicly stated his reluctance to form a coalition government with United Thai Nation and Palang Pracharat, citing their roles in the 2014 coup. However, upon his swearing-in as prime minister, the coalition cabinet included members from these parties.

In terms of social issues, Srettha is identified as a liberal. He has expressed opposition to conscription and has been an advocate for environmental sustainability and LGBTQ rights. Despite these progressive stances, Srettha showed reluctance to propose changes to the lèse-majesté laws (which criminalize defamation, insults, and threats to the monarch of Thailand), a decision attributed to maintaining support within the coalition government formed by Pheu Thai with other parties. He also moved to recriminalize cannabis in 2024, reversing the previous decriminalization policy.

6.2. Economic philosophy

In a 2023 interview with FAROSE, Srettha clarified his positions on economic issues, stating that he believes in "capitalism with empathy." As an ex-CEO and businessman who recently entered politics, he believes that capitalism and empathy for the poor can go hand in hand. He stated that "The various problems that come with economic disparity and social inequality should be discussed with empathy and understanding." With Pheu Thai, he pledged to stimulate the economy and combat poverty through raising the minimum wage and implementing a 10.00 K THB 'digital wallet' scheme.

7.1. Family and marriage

Srettha's nickname is Nid (นิด_Nit^Thai). He stands 6.3 ft ^{(1.92 m)} tall, which made him the tallest leader within ASEAN and the third tallest in the world behind Edi Rama of Albania and Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia during his time in office.

Srettha is married to Pakpilai Thavisin, a businesswoman and anti-aging medical doctor. They have three children: two sons, Napat Thavisin and Warat Thavisin, and one daughter, Chanada Thavisin. His mother, Chodchoy, died on 21 July 2024. Her funeral was granted royal-sponsored bathing rites by King Vajiralongkorn on 30 July and was held on 6 August.

7.2. Hobbies and interests

Srettha is a collector of classic travel trunks, such as those made by Louis Vuitton, and his collection has been publicly exhibited. He is a passionate supporter of Liverpool F.C. and has contributed to the Sansiri Academy, which trains football players in Thailand. He has also written football columns for sports newspapers. Notably, for the UEFA Champions League Final in 2018, Srettha booked a VIP package and celebrated Liverpool's championship at a hotel in Kyiv. He frequently uses social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), where he has been actively posting updates since 2009.

7.3. Wealth and assets

On 28 December 2023, the NACC revealed that Srettha had a declared wealth valued around 659.00 M THB. His assets included a 1963 Aston Martin DB5 worth 50.00 M THB. His yearly earnings were reported to be around 153.00 M THB.

9.1. Positive assessments

Srettha's supporters and analysts often highlight his strong focus on economic revitalization as a key positive aspect of his premiership. His proactive approach to boosting tourism through visa exemptions and his efforts to attract foreign investment, including engagements with global tech and automotive giants, were seen as crucial for Thailand's economic recovery and growth. His commitment to making Thailand a regional hub for concerts and the electric vehicle industry also garnered positive attention.

Domestically, his advocacy for reducing educational inequality, his goal of achieving "zero student dropouts," and his initiatives to improve access to quality education were viewed favorably. His emphasis on environmental sustainability, including efforts to combat air pollution and promote clean energy, showcased a forward-looking approach to national development. Furthermore, his progressive stances on social issues such as opposition to conscription and support for LGBTQ+ rights aligned with liberal values.

9.2. Criticisms and controversies

Despite his positive contributions, Srettha faced significant criticisms and controversies throughout his career, particularly during his premiership.

A persistent criticism was the label of him being a "puppet" controlled by "powers behind the throne," largely due to his close association with former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the circumstances of his ascent to power. This perception was reinforced by the political maneuvering that saw Pheu Thai form a coalition with military-linked parties, a direct contradiction of Srettha's pre-election promise not to ally with those involved in the 2014 coup.

His business career also had its share of controversies. The 2012 Four Seasons Hotel meeting, where he discussed national financial matters with then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, drew accusations of impropriety and calls for investigation into his assets. Later, in 2023, he faced allegations of tax evasion related to a 2019 land purchase, leading him to file a defamation lawsuit against the whistleblower.

During his premiership, the digital wallet scheme, a flagship policy, attracted considerable criticism regarding its funding, feasibility, and potential long-term economic consequences. The plan faced multiple postponements and a significant shift in funding strategy, from the national budget to a 500.00 B THB loan, which drew widespread condemnation. His government's initial policy statement was also criticized by opposition parties for being vague and lacking concrete targets. Furthermore, his disagreement with the Bank of Thailand over whether the economy was in a "crisis" and his calls for interest rate cuts highlighted a tension between the government's fiscal and the central bank's monetary policies.

The Land Bridge mega-project, while promoted for its economic potential, faced strong opposition from local communities, and Srettha acknowledged the government's failure to gain public trust and effectively communicate the project's benefits. His evolving stance on cannabis policy, particularly his move to recriminalize it after initial decriminalization, created a significant rift with his coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party.

Finally, his dismissal from office by the Constitutional Court on 14 August 2024, marked the most significant controversy of his political career. The court ruled that he had committed a gross ethical violation by appointing Pichit Chuenban, who had a prior conviction for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials, to his cabinet. This decision underscored concerns about political ethics and accountability at the highest levels of government.

10.1. Legacy

Srettha Thavisin's legacy in Thai politics and society is primarily defined by his ambitious economic agenda and the circumstances of his rise and fall from power. His premiership, driven by a "capitalism with empathy" philosophy, aimed to stimulate the economy through large-scale initiatives like the digital wallet scheme and major infrastructure projects such as the Land Bridge. While these policies demonstrated a clear intent to boost growth and reduce inequality, their long-term effectiveness and the controversies surrounding their implementation remain subjects of debate.

His efforts to revitalize the tourism sector and attract foreign investment, coupled with his active engagement in international diplomacy, signaled a renewed focus on global economic integration and Thailand's role on the world stage. Srettha's commitment to strengthening the Thai passport and promoting the electric vehicle industry also laid groundwork for future economic directions.

However, his legacy is also inextricably linked to the complex political landscape he navigated. His decision to form a coalition with military-linked parties, despite earlier promises, highlighted the pragmatic compromises often necessary in Thai politics. This move, alongside the ethical questions surrounding cabinet appointments that ultimately led to his dismissal, underscores the persistent challenges of democratic governance and accountability in Thailand. His removal by the Constitutional Court, as the fourth premier in 16 years to face such a fate, reinforces a pattern of judicial intervention in Thai political leadership.

Ultimately, Srettha's influence may be seen as an attempt to bridge the divide between economic development and social welfare, while grappling with the entrenched political dynamics that continue to shape Thailand's trajectory.