Sonthi Boonyaratglin

Sonthi Boonyaratglin, born on October 2, 1946, is a notable figure in Thai politics and military history. He served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and led the Council for Democratic Reform, a military junta that governed Thailand following a coup d'état. His leadership marked a significant moment in the nation's history, as he became the first Muslim to hold such a prominent position in the predominantly Buddhist country.

On September 19, 2006, Sonthi orchestrated a coup that resulted in the ousting of the elected government, positioning himself as the de facto head of government. This bold move not only altered the political landscape of Thailand but also underscored his influence within the military and political spheres.

After retiring from the Army in 2007, Sonthi transitioned into a political role as deputy prime minister, where he was responsible for national security. His extensive military background and experience in governance contributed to his multifaceted career.

Beyond his political endeavors, Sonthi is recognized as a multimillionaire. He has two wives, Sukanya and Piyada, which raises questions about legal prohibitions against bigamy in Thailand. His personal life, much like his career, reflects the complexities of navigating traditional norms within a modern political framework.