Current Affairs - Politics

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, at 38, was sworn in as Thailand's youngest prime minister after the Constitutional Court ousted the previous prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, and dissolved the Pheu Thai Party. This marked a significant shift during a turbulent political period. Paetongtarn leads a new 36-member cabinet, setting a record with eight women in key positions, reflecting a fresh approach in Thailand’s leadership.

Vietnam's National Assembly has approved the appointment of three new Deputy Prime Ministers, namely Nguyen Hoa Binh, Ho Duc Phoc, and Bui Thanh Son, for the 2021-2026 term. This brings the total number of Deputy Prime Ministers to five, along with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, forming the government for the current term. This development highlights significant changes in Vietnam's political landscape.

Paul Kagame was sworn in for a fourth term as Rwanda's President after winning an overwhelming 99% of the vote in the recent election. The ceremony took place at Kigali's Amahoro Stadium and was attended by various African leaders. Kagame, who has been in power since 2000, ran for reelection under the Rwandan Patriotic Front banner and secured his position following a 2015 constitutional amendment that allowed him to extend his presidency. His leadership continues to shape Rwanda's political landscape.

Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate, was appointed to lead Bangladesh's interim government following the resignation and flight of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This decision was made after a meeting involving President Mohammed Shahabuddin, military leaders, and student leaders, amidst a mass uprising primarily led by students. Yunus agreed to step in, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the students and the critical situation facing the country.

Bangladesh is experiencing a significant political crisis after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country amid widespread protests against her regime. The protests, initially sparked by controversy over a job quota order, expanded into larger demands for her removal from office. The crisis has led to an interim government taking over and the army urging citizens to trust them during this transitional period. The unrest reflects deep-seated dissatisfaction with Hasina's 15-year rule, which the opposition describes as authoritarian.