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Abhisit VejjajivaPrime Minister of Thailand
Date of Birth: 03.08.1964
Country:  Thailand |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Political Career
- Rise through the Ranks
- Prime Minister of Thailand
- Tightened Grip on Power
- Political Crisis and Economic Challenges
- Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Apirat Kongsompongwas born on August 3, 1964, in Newcastle, United Kingdom, to Thai medical professionals. His family boasts a three-century-long lineage in Thailand's elite.
As a teenager, Apirat attended a school affiliated with Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. He subsequently moved to the United Kingdom for secondary education, enrolling at a boarding school and later Eton College, one of Europe's most prestigious institutions.
Apirat went on to study at Oxford University, earning a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics before completing a Master's degree in Economics.
Political Career
Entry into PoliticsIn 1992, Apirat was elected to the National Assembly as a member of the Democrat Party, becoming one of Thailand's youngest parliamentarians.
Rise through the Ranks
Apirat's impressive education, charisma, and political acumen propelled him rapidly within the Democrat Party. He progressed from party spokesman to Minister to the Prime Minister's Office.
Prime Minister of Thailand
In 2005, Apirat succeeded the outgoing leader of the Democrat Party. In 2006, he ran for Prime Minister in a snap election, promising to end the insurgency in southern Thailand, reform healthcare, and improve education accessibility. However, the election was annulled, leading to a military coup.
Apirat's bid for premiership ultimately prevailed in a contentious election in December 2008. His campaign platform appealed not only to rural voters but also to the middle class and business community.
Tightened Grip on Power
Apirat's leadership style is characterized by increased authoritarianism. Media censorship intensified during his tenure, and his critics denounced his actions as bordering on dictatorship.
Political Crisis and Economic Challenges
The 2008 global financial crisis exacerbated Thailand's domestic political turmoil. Apirat faced accusations of involvement in a military coup three years prior, further destabilizing the situation.
In response to the disruption of an East Asia Summit scheduled for Pattaya in April 2009, a state of emergency was declared. Opposition protesters demanded Apirat's resignation.
Despite the crisis, Apirat insisted that the government maintained control and refused to step down before the end of his term.
Personal Life
A passionate football fan (supporter of Newcastle United), Apirat is married to Pimpen Sakuntabhai, a teacher. They have two children.
