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As Thailand mourns the devastating loss of 23 children and teachers in the horrific school bus fire on Tuesday, the nation is left grappling with shock and sorrow.
The fire, which erupted during a school trip, has been widely reported in both national and international media outlets, once again raising urgent questions about vehicle safety and road safety at large. As investigations continue, grieving families and the country at large look for answers.
But what was perhaps one of the most striking scenes, amidst ghastly pictures of the charred bus, was a visibly emotional Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra being questioned by reporters about this incident. “As a mother, I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those injured and deceased,” she later posted on X.
Her tearful response resonated in a political landscape dominated by male leaders, whose reactions might lack the raw emotion of a grieving parent. This moment struck a chord, particularly among mothers across the country, who shared the sentiment: it could have been our children on that bus.
The response has been swift. In her post on X, Prime Minister Paetongtarn assured that the government would provide compensation to the families of the deceased and cover all medical expenses. She dispatched high-ranking officials, including Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, to visit the site personally.
While some may criticize her policies or the controversial nature of her rise to power, these criticisms do not diminish the unique perspectives women—especially mothers—bring to leadership. As a mother of two who won the hearts of many Thai voters while campaigning eight months pregnant, Prime Minister Paetongtarn embodies the concerns of mothers across the nation, transcending social class. When she speaks about wanting to shape a better future for the next generation, it resonates deeply, especially in moments like these.
Critics may question her motivations or label her actions as political maneuvering, but the depth of emotion in her public grief reflects what many parents across Thailand are feeling. Claims of “crocodile tears” are harsh and cynical, especially coming from a mother. The devastation of seeing the charred remains of children is unimaginable for anyone, particularly a parent.
In the face of such tragedies, women in leadership often embody qualities that their male counterparts may not. Paetongtarn’s response was not just political; it was deeply personal, mirroring the grief of the nation. In the short term, her empathetic response may galvanize political will to address Thailand’s notoriously poor road safety records. The World Health Organization estimates that around 20,000 people die on Thailand’s roads each year, with more than a million injured—a staggering average of 50 deaths per day.
In the long term, Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s willingness to show vulnerability could signal a shift toward more emotionally intelligent governance. Women leaders not only prioritize the needs of women—who comprise over half the population—but also address issues often overlooked, such as social welfare, education, healthcare, peace, and environmental concerns. According to a 2022 report by the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, women tend to advocate for policies that uplift families and communities, which are crucial for a nation’s long-term success.
Historically, Thai politics have been dominated by men, often military coup leaders prioritizing security and order. Yet Paetongtarn’s dual identity as a mother and member of a political legacy may reflect a shift toward a more inclusive future. Her handling of this tragedy exemplifies how women can lead with both strength and sensitivity, qualities that can and should be valued in politics.
The world is watching as Thailand has the opportunity to set an example by embracing more women in leadership, recognizing that it is not only the right thing to do but also a smart choice. Few things are as tragic as the loss of innocent young lives, but times of sorrow can foster solidarity and support within communities. Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s leadership—whether viewed through a political or maternal lens—embodies empathy, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to ensuring a safer future for Thailand’s children.