Dynasties still dominate south-east Asian politics – in democracies and more authoritarian systems

Dynasties still dominate south-east Asian politics – in democracies and more authoritarian systems

Paetongtarn Shinawatra walks with her father and prominent Thai political figure, Thaksin Shinawatra, before her endorsement as Thailand's prime minister in 2024. SPhotograph / ShutterstockDynasties are central to south-east Asian politics as parties are weak, patronage is entrenched and family names are the most durable political brands. But they also face persistent difficulties. Heirs inherit office without real authority, patriarchs refuse t…