Phumtham Wechayachai facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Phumtham Wechayachai
MPCh MVM
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ภูมิธรรม เวชยชัย
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Phumtham in 2021
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| Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand | |
| Assumed office 1 September 2023 |
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| Prime Minister | Srettha Thavisin Paetongtarn Shinawatra |
| Minister of Defence | |
| Assumed office 3 September 2024 |
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| Prime Minister | Paetongtarn Shinawatra |
| Preceded by | Sutin Klungsang |
| Acting Prime Minister of Thailand | |
| In office 14 August 2024 – 16 August 2024 |
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| Monarch | Vajiralongkorn |
| Preceded by | Srettha Thavisin |
| Succeeded by | Paetongtarn Shinawatra |
| Minister of Commerce | |
| In office 1 September 2023 – 3 September 2024 |
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| Prime Minister | Srettha Thavisin Himself (acting) |
| Preceded by | Jurin Laksanawisit |
| Succeeded by | Pichai Naripthaphan |
| Minister of Foreign Affairs | |
| Acting 28 April 2024 – 30 April 2024 |
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| Prime Minister | Srettha Thavisin |
| Preceded by | Parnpree Bahiddha-nukara |
| Succeeded by | Maris Sangiampongsa |
| Deputy Minister of Transport | |
| In office 11 March 2005 – 19 September 2006 |
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| Prime Minister | Thaksin Shinawatra |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 5 December 1953 Phasi Charoen, Bangkok, Thailand |
| Political party | Pheu Thai |
| Other political affiliations |
Thai Rak Thai (1998–2007) Democrat (1977–1997) Communist (1976–1977) |
| Spouse |
Apinaya Wechayachai
(m. 1980) |
| Children | 3 |
| Education |
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| Signature |  |
| Nickname | Uan (อ้วน) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Thailand |
| Branch/service | Volunteer Defense Corps |
| Years of service | 1969–2004 |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
Phumtham Wechayachai (born 5 December 1953) is a well-known Thai politician. He served as the acting Prime Minister of Thailand for a short time in August 2024. Before that, he was a Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Commerce in Thailand.
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Early Life and Education
Phumtham Wechayachai was born in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, on December 5, 1953. He finished his high school studies at Taweethapisek School.
He went on to study at Chulalongkorn University. In 1975, he earned a degree in Political Science. Later, in 1984, he completed his Master's degree in the same field.
Before becoming a full-time politician, Phumtham was a chief executive officer. He led a company called Shin Corporation from 1997 to 1998.
His Journey in Politics
Phumtham Wechayachai has been involved in Thai politics for many years. He started his political journey with the Democrat Party in 1978. He stayed with them until 1997.
After that, he joined the Thai Rak Thai party. He worked as an advisor to the Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Later, he was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Transport.
In 2006, there was a change in government. Phumtham was not allowed to hold political office for five years. When he returned to politics, he became a key leader in the Pheu Thai Party. He served as the Secretary-General and Deputy Leader from 2012 to 2023.
Important Roles He Held
After the 2023 Thai general election, Phumtham took on two important roles. He became the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Commerce. These roles mean he helped lead the country and managed its trade.
In April 2024, he also briefly served as the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs. This happened after the previous minister resigned.
Acting Prime Minister
On August 14, 2024, Phumtham Wechayachai was appointed as the acting Prime Minister of Thailand. This happened after the previous Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, was no longer in office. Phumtham served in this role for two days.
Awards and Honors
Phumtham Wechayachai has received special awards from Thailand. These awards recognize his service to the country.
- In 2024, he received the Knight Grand Cordon of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand.
- In 2008, he received the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant.
These are high honors given to people who have done important work for Thailand.
