Famous Thai Leaders

Yingluck Shinawatra is a Thai businesswoman and politician known for her tenure as Prime Minister of Thailand from 2011 to 2014. She holds a bachelor's degree in public administration from Chiang Mai University and a master's degree from Kentucky State University. Yingluck previously worked in her brother Thaksin Shinawatra's businesses, later becoming president of SC Asset and managing director of Advanced Info Service. Despite being removed from office due to abuse of power charges, she continues to be involved in business ventures, currently chairing Shantou International Container Terminals Ltd.

Pridi Phanomyong was a prominent Thai statesman and professor who held various ministerial posts, served as regent and prime minister, and led the civilian wing of Khana Ratsadon. He played a key role in drafting Thailand's early constitutions, proposed a socialist economic plan, and modernized legal codes. Pridi diverged from dictatorial governance, leading to rivalry with other leaders. Despite political challenges and exile, he continued to resist military dictatorships and promote liberal politics, leaving a lasting legacy as a symbol of resistance.

Princess Srinagarindra was a prominent figure in Thailand known for her philanthropic and humanitarian work. She was deeply involved in various charitable activities, particularly focusing on healthcare and education initiatives. She played a key role in the establishment and development of numerous organizations and projects aimed at improving the well-being of the Thai people, especially those in rural and underserved communities. Her dedication to social welfare earned her the affectionate title "the Royal Grandmother" and widespread respect throughout the country.

Thaksin Shinawatra is a prominent Thai businessman and politician known for his leadership as Prime Minister of Thailand from 2001 to 2006. He founded successful ventures in the telecommunications sector, including Advanced Info Service and Shin Corporation, establishing himself as one of Thailand's wealthiest individuals. During his tenure, Thaksin implemented various programs to address poverty, enhance infrastructure, and provide healthcare coverage. However, his administration faced criticism for controversial decisions, leading to his ousting in a military coup in 2006.

Chuan Leekpai is a prominent Thai politician who has served as the president of the National Assembly of Thailand and the speaker of the Thai House of Representatives. He has held the position of Thai prime minister twice, from 1992 to 1995 and from 1997 to 2001. As the leader of the Democrat Party, he became Thailand's first prime minister without aristocratic or military support. Despite facing criticism for being a slow actor and dealing with corruption scandals, Chuan successfully navigated factional demands and expanded Thailand's social security system.

Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, also known as Marshal P. and Phibun in the West, was a Thai military officer and politician. He played a significant role in the Siamese revolution of 1932 and served as Prime Minister of Thailand from 1938 to 1944 and again from 1948 to 1957. Phibun established a military dictatorship inspired by Italian fascism, promoted Thai nationalism, aligned with Imperial Japan in World War II, and later shifted towards anti-communism during the Cold War. Despite facing political instability and coup attempts, he attempted to transition Thailand into an electoral democracy.

Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat was a prominent Thai general known for staging a coup in 1957 and subsequently serving as Thailand's prime minister until his death in 1963. He had a successful military career and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape during his time in office. Sarit Thanarat was recognized for his leadership, strategic decision-making, and influence on Thai governance. His legacy as a powerful and influential figure in Thailand's history continues to be remembered and studied.

Surin Pitsuwan was a Thai diplomat and politician of Malay descent known for his role as the 12th secretary-general of ASEAN from 2008 to 2012. He made significant contributions to regional diplomacy, focusing on promoting cooperation and unity among Southeast Asian nations. Pitsuwan's professional life was marked by his dedication to enhancing ASEAN's presence on the global stage, advocating for peace, stability, and economic development in the region. His leadership and strategic vision helped shape ASEAN's policies and initiatives during his tenure as secretary-general.

Samak Sundaravej was a Thai politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand and Minister of Defense in 2008. He was also the leader of the People's Power Party in the same year. Throughout his professional life, he was actively involved in Thai politics and held various positions within the government. Samak Sundaravej's career was marked by his dedication to public service and his contributions to shaping the political landscape of Thailand during his time in office.

Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul is a prominent Thai student political activist and university student leader. She serves as the spokesperson of the Student Union of Thailand and is recognized for her vocal criticism of the Thai monarchy. Panusaya gained widespread attention for her role in the 2020 Thai protests, where she led revolutionary demonstrations advocating for significant structural reforms within the monarchy. Despite facing legal challenges, including imprisonment, she continues to advocate for political change and has garnered international support for her unwavering dedication to her cause.

Chatichai Choonhavan was a prominent figure in Thai politics, known for his multifaceted career as an army officer, diplomat, and politician. He played a pivotal role as the chairman of the Thai Nation Party from 1986 to 1991. Serving as the Prime Minister of Thailand from August 1988 until the 1991 coup d'état, he navigated the complexities of governance during a critical period in the country's history. His leadership style and political decisions left a lasting impact on the Thai political landscape.

Mom Rajawongse Seni Pramoj had a diverse and accomplished professional life, serving as the Prime Minister of Thailand three times. He was a prominent politician in the Democrat Party, a skilled lawyer, experienced diplomat, and respected professor. With a strong background in law and politics, Seni Pramoj made significant contributions to Thailand's governance and international relations. As a descendant of the Thai royal family, he brought a unique perspective to his roles in public service and academia.

Abhisit Vejjajiva is a Thai politician who served as the prime minister of Thailand from 2008 to 2011. He was the leader of the Democrat Party from 2005 until his resignation after the party's weak performance in the 2019 election. Abhisit held the position of leader of the opposition from 2005 to 2008 and again after his premiership. He implemented economic stimulus packages and promoted anti-corruption measures during his time in office, but his government faced protests, crackdowns, and human rights challenges.

Iajuddin Ahmed had a distinguished career in academia and public service. With a background in soil science, he rose to the position of full professor and department chairman at the University of Dhaka. He later held key roles such as chairman of the Public Service Commission and the University Grants Commission. In 2002, he was elected as the President of Bangladesh, serving until 2009. Ahmed's contributions also extended to establishing Atish Dipankar University of Science and Technology in 2004.

Prayut Chan-o-cha is a former Thai politician and army officer who served as the 29th Prime Minister of Thailand from 2014 to 2023. He held various significant positions, including Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and leader of the National Council for Peace and Order. Prayut implemented authoritarian measures, cracked down on dissent, and granted himself sweeping powers following a military coup in 2014. After his retirement from politics, he was appointed as a Privy Councilor.

Nouhak Phoumsavanh was a prominent figure in the Pathet Lao revolutionary movement and a respected communist party official. He served as the 3rd President of Laos from 1992 to 1998. Throughout his professional life, he played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Laos, advocating for socialist ideals and leading the country during a critical period of transition. Nouhak Phoumsavanh's dedication to the communist cause and his leadership within the government left a lasting impact on Laos.

Banharn Silpa-archa was a prominent Thai politician who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1995 to 1996. Prior to his political career, he amassed wealth in the construction industry. He started as a Member of Parliament for Suphan Buri and held various cabinet positions in different governments. In 1994, he assumed leadership of the Thai Nation Party. However, in 2008, the party was dissolved by the Constitutional Court, leading to Banharn's ban from politics for five years.

Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn was a military officer and politician in Thailand. He served as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1973 and held the position of Defence Minister. Thanom rose to power through a self-coup but faced public protests that led to his resignation. His return from exile in 1976 triggered further protests and a violent crackdown on demonstrators, culminating in a military coup. Throughout his career, he was known for supporting and initiating military coups to maintain control over the government.

Kukrit Pramoj was a prominent Thai politician, author, scholar, and professor. He served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Thailand from 1973 to 1974 and later became the thirteenth Prime Minister of Thailand from 1975 to 1976. As a member of the Thai royal family, he held a significant position in the country's political landscape. Additionally, he showcased his talent in acting by portraying the Prime Minister of the fictional country of Sarkhan in the 1963 film The Ugly American alongside Marlon Brando.

Mechai Viravaidya is a prominent figure in Thailand known for his advocacy of condoms, family planning, and AIDS awareness. Affectionately called "Mr. Condom," he has been instrumental in reducing the average number of children in Thai families significantly. His efforts have led to widespread improvements in the lives of millions of people, making him a respected politician and activist in the country. Condoms are commonly referred to as "mechais" in Thailand, reflecting his enduring impact on public health and social issues.

Khuang Aphaiwong, also known as Luang Kowit-aphaiwong, was a prominent figure in Thai politics. He founded the Democrat Party and served as the Prime Minister of Thailand three times. His terms in office ranged from August 1944 to 1945, January to May 1946, and November 1947 to April 1948. Throughout his professional life, Khuang Aphaiwong played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Thailand, leaving a lasting impact on the country's governance and policies.

Binnya Dala was a prominent leader in the restoration of the Mon-speaking kingdom of Hanthawaddy, serving as the prime minister and later elected king. He led successful revolts against the Toungoo dynasty and launched invasions of Upper Burma, including capturing the capital of Ava. Despite initial victories, his forces were eventually driven out by Alaungpaya's Konbaung dynasty. Binnya Dala's leadership saw escalating policies of ethnic polarization and ultimately ended in his capture, imprisonment, and execution following a failed invasion and Mon rebellion.

Sunthorn Kongsompong was the de facto head of government of Thailand from 1991 to 1992, following a military coup that deposed the government of Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan. He, along with General Suchinda Kraprayoon, established the National Peacekeeping Council (NPKC) as an interim administration. Despite Anand Panyarachun being appointed as prime minister in March 1991, the NPKC continued to execute the administration of the country. Sunthorn left political office after the May 1992 constitution was promulgated, which prohibited military members from holding the premier's office.

Phao Sriyanond was a Police General in Thailand who served as the director general of the national police. Known for his brutal tactics against political opponents, he gained notoriety for his excessive use of power. His actions led to him fleeing the country and living in exile until his death. Despite his professional success in the police force, his legacy is marred by allegations of human rights abuses and authoritarian behavior during his time in power.