Chumpol Silpa-archa, Thai academic and politician, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand (b. 1940)
Chumpol Silpa-archa (Thai: ชุมพล ศิลปอาชา, RTGS: Chumphon Sinlapa-a-cha, IPA: [t͡ɕʰum.pʰon sǐn.lá.pà.ʔaː.t͡ɕʰaː]), born on 6 June 1940 and passing away on 21 January 2013, was a distinguished figure in Thai politics, known for his significant contributions across various governmental and party roles. His career spanned several decades, culminating in key ministerial and party leadership positions that shaped Thailand's political and economic landscape.
Political Career and Key Roles
Chumpol Silpa-archa's political journey saw him take on pivotal responsibilities within the Thai government. His tenure as a public servant reflected a commitment to national development and administration.
Minister of Tourism and Sports (2008-2013): In this crucial role, Chumpol Silpa-archa oversaw one of Thailand's most vital economic sectors. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is instrumental in promoting Thailand as a global travel destination, developing sports, and managing the vast tourism industry that significantly contributes to the nation's GDP and employment. During his term, he worked towards enhancing Thailand's appeal to international visitors and fostering domestic sporting initiatives.
Deputy Prime Minister (2011-2013): Concurrently with his ministerial duties for a period, Chumpol Silpa-archa also served as a Deputy Prime Minister. This senior governmental position entailed assisting the Prime Minister in the overall administration of the country, coordinating policy implementation across various ministries, and representing the government on important national and international platforms. His role as Deputy Prime Minister underscored his influence and standing within the government.
Party Leadership: Chartthaipattana Party
Beyond his governmental appointments, Chumpol Silpa-archa held a prominent leadership role within a major political party. From January 2009 until his passing in 2013, he served as the president of the Chartthaipattana Party (Thai: พรรคชาติไทยพัฒนา). This party, a successor to the Chart Thai Party, has been a significant player in Thai coalition governments, reflecting a moderate political stance and often focusing on pragmatic policy-making. As party president, Chumpol Silpa-archa was responsible for guiding the party's direction, strategy, and political engagements, playing a key role in the parliamentary landscape of Thailand.
Familial and Political Lineage
Chumpol Silpa-archa's political prominence was also linked to his family. He was the younger brother of Banharn Silpa-archa, a highly influential figure in Thai politics who notably served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1995 to 1996. The Silpa-archa family has deep roots in Thai politics, particularly in the Suphan Buri province, and has significantly contributed to the country's political discourse and governance for decades. This familial connection underscored Chumpol's inherent understanding of Thailand's political dynamics and traditions.
Legacy and Impact
Chumpol Silpa-archa's passing on 21 January 2013, attributed to a stroke, marked the end of a long and impactful career dedicated to public service in Thailand. His contributions as a minister, deputy prime minister, and party leader left a lasting imprint on the nation's political and socio-economic development, particularly in the vital tourism sector. He is remembered for his dedication and his role in guiding the Chartthaipattana Party during a crucial period.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chumpol Silpa-archa
- Who was Chumpol Silpa-archa?
- Chumpol Silpa-archa was a prominent Thai politician who held significant positions in the government and as a political party leader. He served as the Minister of Tourism and Sports and Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand.
- What were Chumpol Silpa-archa's key governmental roles?
- He served as the Minister of Tourism and Sports from 2008 to 2013 and concurrently as Deputy Prime Minister from 2011 to 2013.
- Which political party did Chumpol Silpa-archa lead?
- He was the president of the Chartthaipattana Party (พรรคชาติไทยพัฒนา) from January 2009 until his death in 2013.
- How was Chumpol Silpa-archa related to Banharn Silpa-archa?
- Chumpol Silpa-archa was the younger brother of Banharn Silpa-archa, who himself was a former Prime Minister of Thailand (1995-1996).