Apirak Kosayodhin Politician
Apirak Kosayodhin (Thai: อภิรักษ์ โกษะโยธิน; RTGS: Aphirak Kosayothin, born March 30, 1961) is a former Thai business executive and former governor of Bangkok. In the gubernatorial elections on August 29, 2004 he won with 40% of the votes. He was re-elected on October 6, 2008, in the gubernatorial elections with 45% of the vote, but he resigned a month later after being indicted on charges of corruption.Afterward the resignation Mr. Apirak became an advisor to Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva. In December 2010, he became the 2nd Bangkok district Member of Parliament, with 69% of the vote. After the 2011 National Election, Mr. Apirak became the 8th Party-list MP of the Democrats Party of Thailand. He also became the deputy-leader of the Party and the Shadow Minister of Commerce.Born in Nonthaburi in a Thai Chinese family, he studied at Triam Udom Suksa School and Chiang Mai University, where he received a Bachelor Degree in Food Science and Technology in 1983. Beginning his professional career at the Thai branch of Pizza Hut, he worked at several companies as manager and director. 2002–2004 he was among other posts CEO of TA Orange (currently known as True Move) and member of the Board of Directors of the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
