By Abiola Olawale
In a historic development, Thailand’s parliament has elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new Prime Minister.
Shinawatra, a 37-year-old daughter of divisive political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, became the youngest prime minister on Friday.
She is set to become Thailand’s second female prime minister after sailing through a house vote and emerging as the winner. She won easily with 319 votes, nearly two-thirds of the house.
She will also become the third Shinawatra to take the top job after her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra, and her father Thaksin, the country’s most influential and polarising politician.
Addressing the press after her victory, Shinawatra said: “I talked to Srettha, my family and people in my party and decided it was about time to do something for the country and the party.
“I hope I can do my best to make the country go forward. That’s what I’m trying to do. Today, I’m honoured, and I feel very happy.”
