Phraya Manopakorn Nititada (1884-1948), also known as Chao Phraya Yommaraj (the title bestowed posthumously), holds the distinction of being the first President of Thailand, serving from 1932 until his death in 1948. Born into an aristocratic family in Bangkok, he received a traditional Thai education before pursuing higher studies in law and political science in Europe.
Manopakorn played a crucial role in the Siamese Revolution of 1932, which resulted in the overthrow of the absolute monarchy and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. He was a prominent member of the Khana Ratsadon (People’s Party), a group of military and civilian officials who led the revolution. After the revolution, he was elected President of the Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting a new constitution for the kingdom. The new constitution was promulgated in 1932, transforming Siam into a constitutional monarchy.
- As President, Manopakorn faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, political unrest, and territorial disputes with neighboring countries. He pursued a policy of economic modernization and social reform, aimed at improving the living standards of the Thai people.
- He also sought to strengthen Thailand’s international standing, establishing diplomatic relations with several countries and joining the League of Nations.
- His efforts to reform the judiciary and introduce democratic practices laid the foundation for Thailand’s future development.
Manopakorn’s legacy is complex and controversial. He is often criticized for his authoritarian rule and his suppression of political dissent. However, he is also remembered for his dedication to Thailand’s modernization and his role in establishing a constitutional monarchy. His achievements include:
- The promulgation of the 1932 constitution, which introduced democratic principles and limited the power of the monarchy.
- The establishment of the Bank of Thailand, which played a crucial role in stabilizing the country’s economy.
- The introduction of compulsory education, which significantly improved literacy rates and expanded access to education for all Thai citizens.
Phraya Manopakorn Nititada remains a significant figure in Thai history, remembered for his contributions to Thailand’s modernization and his role in laying the foundation for the country’s future development.
Emblem of Thailand
To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Tanzania, Tajikistan and Syria. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.
![The president of the National Assembly (Thai: ประธานรัฐสภา, RTGS: Prathan Ratthasapha, pronounced [prā.tʰāːn rát.tʰā.sā.pʰāː]) is the presiding officer (speaker) of the National Assembly of Thailand. Since 1997, the office has been an ex officio position occupied by the speaker of the House of Representatives of Thailand. The president is therefore an MP, usually from the majority party in the House of Representatives. The president is elected at the beginning of a House session immediately after an election, there are no term limits for the office. In the aftermath of the Coup d'état in 2014, the function of legislative assembly was turned over to the junta-controlled National Legislative Assembly, which Pornpetch Wichitcholchai, President of the National Legislative Assembly, is occupying ex officio position of President of the National Assembly.
The office of the president of the National Assembly was first established in 1932, with the establishment of the first legislature of Thailand. The office of the president of the People's Assembly of Siam was first occupied by Chaophraya Thammasakmontri (Sanan Thephasadin na Ayutthaya).](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9a/Seal_of_the_Parliament_of_Thailand.svg)
The official residence and symbol of the Thailand President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Thailand’s History
- Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX)
- Vajiralongkorn (Rama X)
- Plaek Phibunsongkhram
- Pridi Banomyong
- Thaksin Shinawatra
- Yingluck Shinawatra
- Sukarno
- Thanarat Thanarat
- Sarit Thanarat
- Phibun Songkhram
Thailand, officially known as the Kingdom of Thailand, has had many influential leaders throughout its history. Below are 10 of the most popular presidents from Thailand:
- Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX): As the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history, King Bhumibol Adulyadej was widely respected and loved by the Thai people. He played a crucial role in fostering national unity and development during his reign of over 70 years.
- Vajiralongkorn (Rama X): Following the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, his son Vajiralongkorn ascended to the throne and became the reigning monarch of Thailand. Although he stirs various opinions among the public, he remains an influential figure in Thai politics.
- Plaek Phibunsongkhram: Serving as the Prime Minister and dictator of Thailand during the 1940s and 1950s, Phibunsongkhram implemented many social and economic reforms and promoted Thai nationalism.
- Pridi Banomyong: Known as the “Father of Thai Democracy,” Pridi Banomyong played a crucial role in drafting Thailand’s first democratic constitution and establishing the Thammasat University.
- Thaksin Shinawatra: Elected as Prime Minister in 2001, Thaksin Shinawatra implemented various populist policies that gained him a strong following among rural Thais. However, his tenure was marred by allegations of corruption.
- Yingluck Shinawatra: The younger sister of Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck Shinawatra became Thailand’s first female prime minister in 2011. Her term in office saw various social welfare programs and policies aimed at alleviating poverty.
- Sukarno: Although not a Thai president, Sukarno, the first President of Indonesia, played a significant role in influencing Thai politics during the struggle for independence from European colonial rule.
- Thanarat Thanarat: Thanarat Thanarat, also known as Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, led a military coup in 1957 and served as Prime Minister. During his rule, he focused on modernization and infrastructure development.
- Sarit Thanarat: Thanarat’s younger brother, Sarit Thanarat, also seized power through a military coup and served as Thailand’s Prime Minister from 1959 to 1963. He is credited with restoring stability to the country and implementing anti-communist measures.
- Phibun Songkhram: As mentioned earlier, Phibun Songkhram served as both President and Prime Minister of Thailand. He implemented various nationalist policies and promoted Thai cultural identity.
These presidents have left a lasting impact on Thailand’s political landscape and have been celebrated by the Thai people for their contributions to the nation’s development.
