The public figurehead of the Pathet Lao was Prince Souphanouvong. Even though Souphanouvong was not the top man of the Pathet Lao, it was estimated that he was either number three or number four in the party hierarchy. The prince was described as naturally brilliant, articulate, extroverted and physically robust. He was charismatic and was highly popular among the Laotians for his nationalistic views.