In a resolute step towards ensuring a smooth and lawful administration, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced that comprehensive background checks will be performed on all candidates for cabinet positions. These rigorous vettings aim to verify that candidates adhere to all legal stipulations, thereby preventing any potential legal entanglements that could jeopardize the new government.
Ms. Paetongtarn, who made these remarks during an appearance at the National Defence College where she’s immersed in an executive training program, expressed confidence that the ruling alliance—comprising her party, Pheu Thai, and ten others—would finalize an agreement on the new cabinet formation within this week.
A recent milestone in her political career, Ms. Paetongtarn, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin, was elected by a substantial majority in the House of Representatives this past Friday. She makes history not only as the 31st Prime Minister of Thailand but also as the youngest ever to assume this role.
During this time, the Pheu Thai leadership, including Ms. Paetongtarn, convened to deliberate on their ministerial nominations. She also plans to engage in dialogues with other principal figures to solidify their choices.
Despite circulating media reports, there have been no assurances from Ms. Paetongtarn about retaining all the cabinet members from the previous administration led by Srettha Thavisin. She remains adamant about conducting thorough background checks on potential ministers to forestall any future legal issues.
“We must meticulously examine the qualifications of those who aspire to become cabinet ministers, so we avoid any missteps,” Ms. Paetongtarn stated, alluding to the unfortunate fate of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. “This issue is a collective concern, and forming a cabinet will not take more than a month.”
The previous Prime Minister, Mr. Srettha, faced a significant setback when the Constitutional Court dismissed him on August 14, citing an ethics violation for appointing a former convict, Pichit Chuenban, as the PM’s Office Minister.
Addressing this issue, Ms. Paetongtarn informed that the Council of State, the government’s legal advisory body, will be tasked with scrutinizing the qualifications of the ministerial candidates. She also urged coalition partners to pre-screen their candidates before forwarding their lists for vetting by the Council of State.
Shutting down speculations, she denied that the Pheu Thai Party intends to reclaim the interior minister position, previously held by Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, in the earlier government.
Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai further elaborated that Pheu Thai has invited coalition members to submit their cabinet nominations to the Prime Minister’s Secretary-General, Prommin Lertsuridej, who will then relay them to the Council of State for validation, thereby preventing any legal complications.
Reflecting on the Constitutional Court’s ruling in Mr. Srettha’s case, Mr. Phumtham emphasized the necessity for both the Council of State and the Cabinet Secretariat to meticulously inspect the qualifications of all ministerial aspirants. He noted that the coalition parties are expected to hand in their lists of candidates to the PM’s secretary-general today.
When queried about whether the existing distribution of cabinet posts among coalition allies would remain unchanged, Mr. Phumtham mentioned that the Prime Minister would discuss these allocations with the coalition partners.
Looking ahead, sources have suggested that Capt Thamanat Prompow, currently serving as the Caretaker Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, might face qualification reviews if nominated for a ministerial role in the new government. This scrutiny arises from his past conviction and imprisonment for a drug-related offense in Australia during the 1990s.
I think these background checks are long overdue! Corruption has plagued Thai politics for too long.
Totally agree, Sarah! It’s about time we have some accountability in our government. Go Paetongtarn!
Accountability is great, but these checks could also be used to purge political enemies.
But are background checks really foolproof? People with shady pasts can slip through the cracks.
No system is perfect, John, but it’s better than doing nothing at all. Every little step helps.
I wonder if Paetongtarn’s measures will even make a difference. Thai politics is too entrenched in corruption and cronyism.
You might be right, but it’s a sign that someone is trying to clean up the mess. Baby steps.
Just another politically-motivated stunt. Nothing will change.
I hope you’re wrong, but we’ll have to wait and see. Her pedigree suggests she has the capability.
If the Council of State is actually doing their job, this could be significant.
This should have been done years ago! Finally, someone with the guts to take action.
I am skeptical. The Pheu Thai party has its own baggage. Will they really play clean?
Skepticism is healthy, but let’s give her the benefit of the doubt. At least she’s setting a precedent.
Exactly! Pheu Thai has a history of filling seats with questionable figures.
It’s exciting to see a young leader taking charge. She represents a new hope!
Young doesn’t always mean effective. Experience matters too.
Agreed, Kamol, but bringing in fresh perspectives could be exactly what we need.
Fresh perspectives can be valuable, but she has to balance it with wisdom from the elders.
Young leaders are more in tune with modern issues. It’s a good start.
Looks like Paetongtarn is breaking barriers in more ways than one. Youngest PM ever!
What about Capt Thamanat Prompow? His past actions should definitely disqualify him.
Agreed, Chris. If these background checks are legit, he shouldn’t pass.
Exactly, Koh. Allowing him in would undermine the credibility of the entire process.
This might be just lip service to seem progressive. Let’s see how thorough these checks really are.
Been burned before, haven’t we? Skepticism is fair. We’ll see.
Coalition partners need to pre-screen their candidates? Good luck with that!
True, Sudarat. Coalition politics are always messy. Hard to control every member.
Exactly, Ravi. I’m not holding my breath, but hope for the best!
Wonder if any skeletons will come out from Paetongtarn’s own closet.
I am hopeful but wary. Background checks are a good start, but we need more systemic reforms.
Systemic reforms take time. These background checks might be a stepping stone.
This is just a distraction from the real problems the country is facing.
Maybe, but addressing corruption is fundamental, Senna. It’s the root of many issues.
You have a point, Pong. I just hope it’s not all smoke and mirrors.
The ousting of Srettha Thavisin was a wake-up call. If this measures prevent similar issues, it’s worth it.
Good point, Jayden. Srettha’s case was a mess. Lessons need to be learnt.
I’m looking forward to see who makes the final cut. Hopefully, they’ll be competent and clean.
Paetongtarn is just continuing her family’s legacy. I just hope it’s in a good way.
Family legacy isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But let’s hope she forges her own reputation.