Juan Carlos Ongania vs Suchinda Kraprayoon

General Juan Carlos Ongan

Onganía's government implemented an economic stabilization plan under Minister Adalbert Krieger Vasena. The plan included a 40% devaluation of the peso, wage freezes, and price controls, which temporarily reduced inflation but increased unemployment and social unrest.

Onganía's regime violently suppressed the Cordobazo, a major popular uprising in Córdoba led by students and workers protesting economic policies and police brutality. The military response resulted in dozens of deaths and hundreds of arrests, marking a turning point against the dictatorship.

Onganía was removed from power by the military junta of the Argentine Revolution, led by General Alejandro Lanusse. The junta replaced him with General Roberto Marcelo Levingston, citing Onganía's failure to resolve political and economic crises.

General Suchinda Kraprayoon led the National Peace Keeping Council in a bloodless coup that overthrew Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan. The coup was justified by claims of corruption and political instability, establishing a military junta.

After a general election, Suchinda was appointed Prime Minister despite not being an elected MP. His appointment sparked widespread protests, as it was seen as a continuation of military rule and a violation of democratic principles.

Massive pro-democracy protests in Bangkok, led by Chamlong Srimuang, demanded Suchinda's resignation. The military crackdown resulted in dozens of deaths. King Bhumibol intervened, leading to Suchinda's resignation and the restoration of civilian government.