Surayud Chulanont Prime Minister of Thailand Date of Birth: 28.08.1943 Country: Thailand

1. Surayud Chulanont: Thailand's 24th Prime Minister
2. Early Life and Military Career
3. Appointment to Prime Ministership
4. Economic and Political Goals
5. Reputation and Legacy

Surayud Chulanont: Thailand's 24th Prime Minister

On August 30, 2006, King Bhumibol Adulyadej appointed 63-year-old Surayud Chulanont as the 24th Prime Minister of Thailand since the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in 1932. Chulanont's appointment marked the first time since 1992 that the Prime Minister had not been elected through the usual electoral process.

Early Life and Military Career

Born on August 28, 1943, in Bangkok, Surayud Chulanont comes from a military family. He graduated from the Royal Thai Military Academy and received further military training in the United States. Chulanont served in the Thai infantry, artillery, and special forces, primarily in combating separatist movements in southern Thailand.

Appointment to Prime Ministership

Following a military coup d'état in 2006, Chulanont was appointed Prime Minister by King Adulyadej. At that time, he was serving as a member of the King's Privy Council, having retired from active military service as Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army three years earlier.

Economic and Political Goals

Upon taking office, Chulanont pledged to address the country's pressing issues, emphasizing social welfare as a priority. "We will not pay much attention to GDP growth, and will focus on the well-being and prosperity of the people," he stated. Chulanont also expressed support for non-intervention by the military in politics, despite his own military background.

Reputation and Legacy

Surayud Chulanont is widely respected in Thailand and is known for his reputation for integrity. He remains a respected figure in Thai politics, known for his commitment to public service and his efforts to promote unity and development in the country.