Chiang Mai MP Julapun Amornvivat Tipped as Potential Foreign Minister in New Government

In the new government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Julapun Amornvivat of Chiang Mai, a Pheu Thai party member and member of a powerful clan in the north, is a serious contender for the role of foreign minister.

According to Pheu Thai insiders, the Cabinet lineup is official, with Srettha serving as the prime minister and finance minister at the same time.

At the age of 48, Julapun rose to prominence for his outspoken opposition to the Prayut administration during House deliberations.

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Julapun, who is the son of the former deputy prime minister Sompong, has actively participated in House committees looking into economic, financial, and budgetary issues.

Although Julapun lacks experience in foreign relations, his father’s position in Pheu Thai and continuing political power in the north support his candidacy. Chulalongkorn University awarded Julapun a degree in economics, and Boston University awarded her an MBA.

Julapun was one of just two Pheu Thai candidates to win in Chiang Mai constituencies after the general election in May, which saw major gains for the Move Forward party.

His wife, Visaradee Techateerawat, represents Chiang Rai as a Pheu Thai MP.