Suchinda Kraprayoon. File photo courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Thailand is mourning the loss of its 19th Prime Minister, Gen. Suchinda Kraprayoon, affectionately known as Big Su, who passed away peacefully at 91.

 

The former leader died from old age in Phramongkutklao Hospital in the early hours of June 10. Born on August 6, 1933, Suchinda's life was marked by significant contributions in both military and political spheres.

 

Gen. Suchinda had a distinguished career, holding influential roles including Minister of Defence, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, and Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

 

He played a pivotal part in the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), staging a coup in 1991. He was unexpectedly appointed Prime Minister on April 7, 1992, after initially stating he would not take up the position.

 

During his term, Suchinda appointed his brother-in-law, Gen. Issarapong Noonpakdee, as interior minister, inciting opposition from political activists.

 

The move was criticised as an extension of the NCPO's authoritarian rule and led to massive protests in Bangkok. Security forces and police clashed with demonstrators between May 17-20, 1992, and Suchinda eventually resigned on May 24, 1992, following the unrest.

 

Suchinda's legacy extends to his personal life, where he was a devoted family man. His wife, Khunying Wanee Kraprayoon, passed away on September 21, 2021. The couple shared many years and significant moments. As Thailand reflects on Gen. Suchinda's eventful life, the country awaits details of his funeral arrangements.

 

This development leaves a complex legacy of leadership marked by both his military achievements and controversial political tenure. The implications of his passing add to Thailand's rich historical narrative, reflecting on a period marked by political turbulence and change.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-10

 

 

3 hours ago, webfact said:

Suchinda Kraprayoon. File photo courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Thailand is mourning the loss of its 19th Prime Minister, Gen. Suchinda Kraprayoon, affectionately known as Big Su, who passed away peacefully at 91.

 

The former leader died from old age in Phramongkutklao Hospital in the early hours of June 10. Born on August 6, 1933, Suchinda's life was marked by significant contributions in both military and political spheres.

 

Gen. Suchinda had a distinguished career, holding influential roles including Minister of Defence, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, and Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

 

He played a pivotal part in the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), staging a coup in 1991. He was unexpectedly appointed Prime Minister on April 7, 1992, after initially stating he would not take up the position.

 

During his term, Suchinda appointed his brother-in-law, Gen. Issarapong Noonpakdee, as interior minister, inciting opposition from political activists.

 

The move was criticised as an extension of the NCPO's authoritarian rule and led to massive protests in Bangkok. Security forces and police clashed with demonstrators between May 17-20, 1992, and Suchinda eventually resigned on May 24, 1992, following the unrest.

 

Suchinda's legacy extends to his personal life, where he was a devoted family man. His wife, Khunying Wanee Kraprayoon, passed away on September 21, 2021. The couple shared many years and significant moments. As Thailand reflects on Gen. Suchinda's eventful life, the country awaits details of his funeral arrangements.

 

This development leaves a complex legacy of leadership marked by both his military achievements and controversial political tenure. The implications of his passing add to Thailand's rich historical narrative, reflecting on a period marked by political turbulence and change.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-10

 

 

 

Condolences to his family by not one of my favorite people. 

Too many generals in Thai politics

" Thailand is mourninig his loss "   Yeah, right. 🙄

 

I do not expect the relatives of the students, and others, who died at his hands in the events known as Black May in 1992 are too sad to see him shake off this mortal coil.

7 hours ago, scorecard said:

 

Condolences to his family by not one of my favorite people. 

True. In his case he declared himself to be the PM. No election. Not democracy.

Good riddance to bad rubbish. If I believed in hell I would wish on him to burn there.

On 6/10/2025 at 7:41 AM, hotchilli said:

Too many generals in Thai politics

 

One less now.