Thailand’s Prime Minister Declares Over US$400 Million in Assets

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared over US$400 million in assets, which includes more than 200 designer handbags and 75 luxury watches. As the youngest daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, she fulfilled her obligation to disclose assets to the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

On Friday, Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra disclosed her substantial assets exceeding US$400 million, according to her political party. This declaration includes an impressive collection of over 200 luxury handbags valued at more than US$2 million and at least 75 opulent watches totaling nearly US$5 million. As the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn is the fourth member of her family to take the helm of the Thai government in the past two decades. Her obligation to declare her assets arose from standards set by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The declaration reported her overall assets of approximately 13.8 billion baht (US$400 million), with 11 billion baht attributed to various investments, supplemented by another billion baht in cash and deposits. The report also indicated her extensive collection of timepieces and handbags, alongside real estate holdings in London and Japan, among other investments.

The requirement for public officials in Thailand to declare their assets is a measure instituted by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to promote transparency and accountability in government. This action is particularly significant for politicians like Paetongtarn Shinawatra, given her familial ties to a prominent political dynasty. As the daughter of an influential figure in Thai politics, her asset declaration not only highlights individual wealth but also underscores the broader implications of political leadership and dynastic rule in Thailand.

In summary, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s asset declaration reveals both her significant wealth and the scrutiny faced by public officials in Thailand. With assets totaling over US$400 million, including luxury goods and substantial investments, her declaration is emblematic of the ongoing intersection between politics, wealth, and public accountability in the country.

Original Source: www.scmp.com