Abhisit Vejjajiva
Abhisit Vejjajiva
Full Name and Common Aliases
Abhisit Vejjajiva is a former Thai politician whose full name is Prawat Vejjajiva. He is commonly known as Abhisit.
Birth and Death Dates
Abhisit was born on March 3, 1968.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Abhisit is Thai by nationality. His profession is that of a politician, specifically serving as the 23rd Prime Minister of Thailand from 2008 to 2011.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Bangkok's Phra Khanong area, Abhisit was born into an influential family with strong ties to Thai politics. His father, Praphat Vejjajiva, was a former Senator and close associate of Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachai, who served as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1973. This connection laid the groundwork for Abhisit's future involvement in national politics.
Major Accomplishments
Abhisit's tenure as Prime Minister marked several significant accomplishments:
Economic reforms: He implemented policies aimed at stimulating economic growth, including tax cuts and investments in infrastructure.
Thaksin Shinawatra's ousting: Abhisit led the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protests that eventually led to the resignation of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2006.
Cabinet formation: After assuming office, he formed a coalition government with several smaller parties.Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions associated with Abhisit include:
PAD protests: The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protests were pivotal events during his tenure as Prime Minister. These protests led to the resignation of Thaksin Shinawatra in 2006.
Constitutional amendments: Abhisit oversaw several constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening democracy and checks on executive power.
Thai-Burma relations: He played a key role in improving Thailand's relationship with neighboring Burma (Myanmar), including facilitating the release of several Thai nationals from Burmese prisons.
Impact and Legacy
Abhisit's legacy is complex, reflecting both his significant accomplishments and criticisms surrounding his tenure. Some notable aspects of his impact include:
Economic growth: His economic policies contributed to Thailand's recovery from the 2008 financial crisis.
Reform efforts: Abhisit's government initiated several reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and reducing corruption.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Abhisit is widely quoted or remembered for his:
Leadership during crises: His handling of the 2008 financial crisis and the aftermath of the PAD protests demonstrated his ability to navigate complex national situations.
Commitment to democracy: Abhisit's efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountability are notable aspects of his legacy.
Quotes by Abhisit Vejjajiva
There is no way out of the crisis unless the prime minister accepts that the key part of the problem is his own legitimacy.
This is really not about counting votes. It's about allowing the rule of law, checks and balances.
The situation has not changed since early this week. We believe we have made a decision for a long-term benefit.
We do not support a coup. We have always operated within the means of the Constitution.
We want to give the prime minister ... a chance to come to a dialogue with all other political parties to set a firm commitment to political reform, and we'll await his response.
The opposition parties don't want the public to misunderstand that we are campaigning for cabinet portfolios.
The government actions will lead to further political crisis, so the three parties have decided to not join the meeting with the prime minister and will not join the elections.
We are exercising our constitutional right and the prime minister must make the decision.