The Legacy of Suchinda Kraprayoon: A Revolutionary Turn in Thai Politics

Fri Jul 18 2025 04:32:42 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
The Legacy of Suchinda Kraprayoon: A Revolutionary Turn in Thai Politics

Thailand bids farewell to former Prime Minister Suchinda Kraprayoon, a military leader whose brief tenure dramatically reshaped the nation’s political landscape amid tumultuous times.


General Suchinda Kraprayoon, who became Thailand’s Prime Minister after a controversial military coup in 1991, passed away at the age of 91. His 48-day reign sparked violent pro-democracy protests known as Black May, marking a pivotal moment in Thai history.



General Kraprayoon Suchinda, known for his role in Thailand's complex military and political landscape, died on June 10 in Bangkok at the age of 91. His leadership marked a significant chapter in Thailand's history, particularly due to the protests known as Black May, which erupted during his short-lived term as Prime Minister.

Suchinda first came into power through a military coup in February 1991, a move that temporarily ousted a civilian government plagued by corruption. As the military commander at that time, he declared a promise not to assume the role of Prime Minister; however, he later accepted the position in April 1992, prompting widespread outrage among citizens who considered it a betrayal—dubbed “Suchinda’s second coup.”

Following his announcement, tens of thousands of protesters took to Bangkok’s streets beginning May 17, demanding an end to military rule and advocating for democracy. The military's response was brutal, with government forces actively targeting the unarmed crowds, leading to a harrowing night when reports indicated the deaths of at least ten individuals at a makeshift surgical ward.

Suchinda's time in office lasted only 48 days amidst growing unrest before he resigned, a decision reflecting both public dissent and military pressures. His controversial rule and the consequences of Black May led to a significant reduction in the military’s direct involvement in Thai governance, revealing the complex relationship between military power and political authority in Thailand.

The events surrounding Suchinda's leadership and the subsequent protests served as a pivotal point in directing Thailand towards a more democratic trajectory, with impacts that continue to resonate in the nation's political conversations today. His passing now initiates reflections on the tumultuous history of Thailand's struggle between democracy and military influence.

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