Sirichok Sopha

Sirichok Sopha (Thai: ศิริโชค โสภา; born 14 June 1967 in Bang Rak, Bangkok), nicknamed Lek (pronounced [lék], Thai: เล็ก, "small"), is a former Thai Democrat Party politician who used to represent Songkhla Province in the House of Representatives and previously served as Private Secretary to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.[1]

Sirichok Sopha at the Parliament in 2009

Early life & education

Born as a youngest son (out of three child) to Lao-born Chinese father and Thai mother, Sirichok was educated at Assumption College, St Bede's Preparatory School, Eastbourne College, King's College London (B.Sc. in Chemistry) and Prince of Songkla University (MBA).

Careers

While studying in England, he used to be a DJ in a pub and also used to win a break dance contest. After graduation, he worked for a while as a lecturer.[2]

He first applied for election in the 1995 general election in the Bangkok constituency under Nam Thai Party[lower-alpha 1] but not elected.

He also ran for elections in the Bangkok again, in the next election at the end of 1996 under the Democrat Party, but was not elected again.[2]

Sirichok was elected for the first time in the constituency of Songkhla in the general election in early 2001.

Politically, he is regarded as an intimate of Abhisit Vejjajiva, earning him the alias "Wallpaper" as he often appears behind Abhisit while giving press interviews.[2]

After missing the mid-2023 elections (not elected twice in a row), he has announced his retirement from politics.[3]

In addition to his career as a politician, Sirichok also owns a hotel in Vibhavadi area. His hotel is unique in that it is an aquarium hotel. It also serves pla ra (Thai fermented fish)-flavored pizza.[2]

Personal life

His family business produces squid snacks under the brand Squidy.[2]

Sirichok is currently single, and he supports Stoke City FC.[4]

Notes

  1. led by Dr. Amnuay Weerawan.

References



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