Thai PM Paetongtarn’s star-studded birthday bash

Pheu Thai’s 141 MPs gathered yesterday to honour their leader, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on the eve of her 38th birthday. The event, which doubled as a heartfelt thank you to her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, was held a day before Paetongtarn’s actual birthday at the party’s headquarters in the Shinawatra 3 Building.

Paetongtarn, who officially turns 38 today, kicked off her birthday celebrations early by arriving at the Pheu Thai headquarters alongside the 62 year old Srettha. The pair were greeted with cheers as former public health minister and ex-party leader, Cholnan Srikaew, presented Paetongtarn with a birthday cake.

The cake, adorned with a photograph of Paetongtarn receiving the royal command for her appointment as Thailand’s 31st prime minister, bore the message, “HBD38 & Happy New PM#31.”

As MPs belted out the birthday song for their beloved leader, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and celebration. After the photo ops, the group moved into the meeting room for their weekly party gathering.

During the meeting, Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong took a moment to acknowledge Srettha’s tireless efforts over the past two years—one year spent campaigning and another as prime minister.

“I would like to thank Srettha for working for us and for laying a strong foundation for us.”

Paetongtarn expressed her deep appreciation for the former Thai premier’s hard work, praising his achievements and dedication.

“I and other Pheu Thai members never imagined that Srettha would have achieved so much.”

Srettha, in his response, affirmed his commitment to the party, vowing to support Paetongtarn and help fellow MPs in times of need. Ending his speech with a wai, Srettha received a standing ovation, cementing his place in Pheu Thai’s history, reported The Nation.

In related news, Paetongtarn extended her gratitude to foreign leaders on Monday for their congratulations on her appointment as Thailand’s 31st premier. She also reiterated Thailand’s dedication to enhancing multilateral cooperation to benefit all countries in the region.