On a radiant Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra sought divine blessings at Bangkok’s revered City Pillar shrine, marking her 38th birthday in a serenely spiritual manner. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu)
Meanwhile, in the political arena, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has promptly addressed apprehensions regarding a potential power vacuum during the interim period of forming a new government. “There is no power vacuum. All coalition parties are working together to address the problems facing the country,” he assured on Thursday.
Mr. Phumtham’s remarks were in response to mounting pressure from the private sector for a swift establishment of a new government, ensuring the continuity of economic stimulus measures. He confidently stated that, as the acting prime minister, he holds comprehensive powers to transfer officials, dissolve the House, and even declare martial law. “But I will not exercise such powers. I only focus on tackling people’s problems,” he emphasized.
When asked about speculations regarding his potential appointment as the new defense minister, a role previously held by Sutin Klungsang, Mr. Phumtham firmly dismissed the rumors.
On another front, Prommin Lertsuridej, the PM’s secretary-general, revealed that all coalition partners, including the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), have submitted their lists of ministerial candidates. He noted that the subsequent step involves rigorous background checks, which are expected to be completed within two weeks. Dr. Prommin refrained from commenting on reports suggesting that the PPRP had exceeded its ministerial nomination quota of four.
Amid swirling rumors that the opposition Democrat Party had submitted its list of ministerial nominations, following overtures from PPRP secretary-general Thamanat Prompow, Dr. Prommin chose to remain tight-lipped. Several insiders disclosed that Capt Thamanat, who currently serves as the caretaker agriculture and cooperatives minister, reached out to Democrat Party leader Chalermchai Sri-on earlier in the week.
This outreach effectively addresses a schism with PPRP leader Prawit Wongsuwon, stemming from Capt. Thamanat’s exclusion from ministerial nominations. In a diplomatic gesture, he reportedly offered two PPRP quota cabinet posts to the Democrat Party.
The exclusion of Capt. Thamanat from the PPRP’s nominations was attributed to his controversial past, involving a conviction and imprisonment related to a drug offense in Australia during the 1990s. This history, it was believed, rendered him unfit for a cabinet position.
Dech-it Khaothong, the Democrat Party’s secretary-general, announced that the party would convene a meeting to decide on joining the new Pheu Thai-led government. “It depends on the party’s resolution,” he remarked. Addressing speculation about the Democrats possibly reconciling with Pheu Thai, its long-standing rival, Mr. Dech-it remarked, “It is time to reset the country. Rivalry and hatred from the past should not be carried over.”
Dr. Prommin also mentioned that independent public bodies would be engaged to assist in verifying the qualifications of cabinet candidates. This is particularly poignant after former PM Srettha Thavisin’s removal, which followed the controversial appointment of an individual with a criminal record to the cabinet. The aim is to ensure that candidates hold no conflicting shares or assets and have no past criminal records, aligning with both legal and ethical standards required for government positions.
Happy Birthday, Prime Minister! Celebrating at the City Pillar shrine is a beautiful way to start a new year.
A birthday bought with people’s struggles doesn’t seem worth celebrating.
Everyone has a right to their personal life and celebrations. It’s not entirely separate from their duties as leaders.
This coalition sounds like a complete mess. How can people trust a government that’s so unstable?
Every coalition has its hiccups. Give it some time. It’s about balancing and finding common ground.
But what about the economic impact? A power vacuum can harm an already fragile economy.
Phumtham’s assurance seems more like a hollow promise. If he has so much power, why isn’t he solving problems faster?
Holding power is one thing, using it responsibly is another. Quick fixes often lead to long-term problems.
He did mention he wouldn’t use it rashly. It’s about gradual progress, not instant gratification.
Why can’t Capt. Thamanat just let go? His past disqualifies him from a leading position.
People can change. If he has proven his capabilities, perhaps he deserves a second chance.
Absolutely not! A leader’s past actions reflect their integrity.
Second chances are important, but not in positions where trust and integrity are paramount.
Democrat Party considering joining Pheu Thai? That’s rich. They’ll never align ideologically.
Stranger things have happened. Politics is about compromise and progress.
But compromising core values for power? That’s not progress.
It’s high time Thailand moved past old rivalries. We need unity, not division.
Unity at what cost, though? Some values and principles shouldn’t be compromised.
True, but some level of compromise is always necessary to move forward.
Background checks for ministerial candidates should be very strict. No more controversies, please.
Totally agree. Integrity should be the first criterion for any public position.
But sometimes good leaders have complicated pasts. Should we ignore their capabilities?
The private sector is right to pressure the government. Economic stability is paramount.
All these political shenanigans are so exhausting. I just want someone who genuinely cares about the people.
That’s a utopian dream. Politics is inherently dirty.
I wonder if all these background checks and rigorous procedures slow down progress.
Phumtham focusing on people’s problems is commendable. Priorities matter.
Dr. Prommin’s approach of engaging independent bodies could add much-needed transparency.
Yes, but it also opens doors for external influences. Independence is a double-edged sword.
I’m curious about the Democrat Party’s decision. Joining Pheu Thai could change the game.
Capt. Thamanat reaching out to Democrats sounds like desperation to me.
No matter what, we need a stable government. Coalition politics shouldn’t hurt the common people.