Sanan Kachornprasart, Thai general and politician (b. 1935)

Sanan Kachornprasart: A Stalwart Figure in Thai Politics and Military

Major General Sanan Kachornprasart (Thai: สนั่น ขจรประศาสน์, RTGS: Sanan Khachonprasat, pronounced [sā.nàn khā.t͡ɕɔ̄ːn.prā.sàːt]), born on 7 September 1935 and passing away on 15 February 2013, was a highly influential and long-serving figure in Thailand’s political landscape. Known for his dual career, he distinguished himself first as a decorated military officer and subsequently as a prominent politician who held numerous significant ministerial portfolios and leadership roles across several political parties.

Early Life and Military Service

Sanan Kachornprasart commenced his illustrious career in the Royal Thai Army, graduating from the prestigious Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy. He rose through the ranks, eventually achieving the distinguished rank of Major General. His military background provided him with a disciplined approach and strategic insight, attributes he would later transfer to his political endeavors, often navigating the complex and dynamic world of Thai politics with considerable skill.

A Distinguished Political Career: From Parliament to Deputy Prime Minister

Transitioning from military service, Sanan Kachornprasart embarked on an extensive and impactful political career that spanned decades. His journey through Thai politics was marked by adaptability and a commitment to public service, seeing him elected as a Member of Parliament for multiple terms representing his constituents. He became a significant presence, known for his pragmatic approach and ability to bridge divides, earning him the reputation of a seasoned political operator.

• Key Ministerial Portfolios: Sanan held several critical cabinet positions, demonstrating his breadth of experience and influence. He notably served as the Minister of Interior, a powerful role overseeing internal security and local administration, on multiple occasions. He also took on the responsibilities of the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, where he contributed to policies affecting Thailand's vital agricultural sector.
• Party Leadership and Affiliations: His political affiliations evolved over time, reflecting the changing dynamics of Thai politics. Early in his career, he was a prominent member of the Democrat Party, one of Thailand's oldest political parties, even serving as its secretary-general. Later, he became a key figure in the Chart Thai Party, which played a significant role in various coalition governments. Following the dissolution of the Chart Thai Party by the Constitutional Court in 2008, he was instrumental in establishing its successor, the Chartthaipattana Party.
• Deputy Prime Minister in the Abhisit Vejjajiva Cabinet: One of his most senior roles was serving as Deputy Prime Minister in the cabinet of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. This tenure, from December 2008 to August 2011, occurred during a particularly turbulent period in Thai politics, marked by significant political unrest. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in governmental stability and policy coordination, drawing upon his vast experience to support the administration.
• Chief Advisor of Chartthaipattana Party: Towards the later stages of his career, Sanan Kachornprasart continued to exert influence as the chief advisor of the Chartthaipattana Party. In this advisory role, he provided guidance and strategic counsel to the party leadership, leveraging his decades of political acumen and experience to shape the party's direction and policies until his passing.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Major General Sanan Kachornprasart's political career was defined by his resilience, strategic thinking, and ability to navigate the often-complex terrain of Thai governance. His numerous roles, from a high-ranking military officer to a multi-term Member of Parliament, a key minister, and a Deputy Prime Minister, solidified his standing as one of Thailand's most enduring and influential political figures. He left behind a legacy of dedicated public service and a significant imprint on the nation's political development.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sanan Kachornprasart

What was Major General Sanan Kachornprasart's highest political office?

Sanan Kachornprasart reached the distinguished position of Deputy Prime Minister in the cabinet of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, serving from December 2008 to August 2011. He also held significant ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Interior and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, multiple times.

Which political parties was Sanan Kachornprasart associated with?

Throughout his extensive career, Sanan Kachornprasart was associated with several prominent Thai political parties. He was notably a key member and leader within the Democrat Party and later a founding and influential figure in the Chart Thai Party, eventually leading to his role as chief advisor for its successor, the Chartthaipattana Party.

What was Sanan Kachornprasart's military background?

Sanan Kachornprasart had a distinguished military career, graduating from the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy. He rose to the rank of Major General in the Royal Thai Army before transitioning into the political arena, bringing a disciplined and strategic perspective to his public service.

When did Sanan Kachornprasart serve as Deputy Prime Minister?

Sanan Kachornprasart served as Deputy Prime Minister from December 2008 to August 2011, during the administration led by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. This period was crucial in the political history of Thailand.