Overview of Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s Wealth Declaration
Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra and her husband, Pitaka Suksawat, have officially declared a combined wealth of 13.9 billion baht (approximately $400 million), as revealed by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). This declaration includes significant assets such as properties in London and land plots in Japan.
Details of the Asset Declaration
Breakdown of Assets and Liabilities
According to the NACC, Ms. Paetongtarn’s assets are valued at 13.84 billion baht, while Mr. Pitaka holds assets worth 141.11 million baht. The couple has reported total debts of approximately 4.44 billion baht, with Ms. Paetongtarn responsible for 4.43 billion baht of that amount.
Income and Expenditure Report
The Prime Minister reported an annual income of 265 million baht, which includes a salary of 3.4 million baht, dividends totaling 259.26 million baht, interest income of 2 million baht, and rental income of 890,000 baht. Her annual expenses are recorded at 57.72 million baht, primarily for personal and household costs.
Asset Highlights
Cash, Deposits, and Investments
Among her assets, Ms. Paetongtarn holds:
- Cash amounting to 7.27 million baht
- Deposits totaling 1.08 billion baht
- Investments valued at 11 billion baht
- Land plots worth approximately 724.92 million baht
- Properties estimated at 168.61 million baht
Luxury Items and Vehicles
The Prime Minister’s wealth also includes a substantial collection of luxury items:
- A fleet of 23 vehicles, including a Bentley valued at 10.6 million baht and a Rolls-Royce Phantom worth 6.7 million baht
- 75 luxury watches estimated at 162 million baht
- 217 luxury handbags valued at around 76.65 million baht
Family Background and Influence
Legacy of the Shinawatra Family
Ms. Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who has a net worth of approximately $2.1 billion, making him one of Thailand’s wealthiest individuals. Thaksin’s wealth primarily stems from his telecommunications empire, which played a significant role in his political career.
Impact on Thai Politics
The Shinawatra family’s financial influence has been a topic of discussion in Thai politics, especially regarding the relationship between wealth and political power in the country.
A New Chapter in Thai Leadership
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s declaration of her substantial assets reflects both her family’s legacy and her position as one of Thailand’s wealthiest leaders. As she navigates her role as Prime Minister, the implications of her financial background will likely continue to shape public perception and political dynamics within Thailand.