Choonhavan, Chatichai (1922–1998)

Thai conservative politician, prime minister 1988–91. He promoted a peace settlement in neighbouring Cambodia as part of a vision of transforming Indochina into a thriving open-trade zone. Despite economic success, he was ousted in a bloodless military coup in 1991.

A field marshal's son, Choonhavan fought in World War II and the Korean War, rising to major general. After a career as a diplomat and entrepreneur, he moved into politics and became leader of the conservative Chart Thai (Thai Nation) party and, in 1988, prime minister. He was overthrown in February 1991 and was allowed, the following month, to leave the country for Switzerland. He later returned to found the Chart Pattana (National Development) party in 1992. It was a member of the governing coalition from 1994.