The political atmosphere in Thailand is abuzz as the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), a significant coalition partner, has thrown its hat into the ring by nominating four seasoned MPs to serve as ministers in the new Pheu Thai-led cabinet. Curiously, these nominees are all familiar faces from the previous government. If any of the four nominees are deemed ineligible by the ruling Pheu Thai party, the PPRP has assured that they will promptly find suitable replacements.
The decision came after a majority vote during PPRP’s executive meeting, which took place yesterday. The spotlight is now on the four nominated lawmakers: caretaker Natural Resources and Environment Minister Pol Gen Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, caretaker Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Capt Thamanat Prompow, caretaker Deputy Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, and caretaker Deputy Public Health Minister Santi Promphat.
The executive meeting on Friday was chaired by none other than Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, the leader of PPRP. However, notable absences were seen, especially from Capt Thamanat and some MPs purportedly aligned with his faction. Rumors swirled around Capt Thamanat’s no-show, but he later clarified that he was occupied with critical relief efforts for flood victims in Phayao and Chiang Rai. Mr. Atthakorn, too, was helping flood victims, albeit in Nan.
The palpable tension between Capt Thamanat and Gen Prawit has been the talk of the town, primarily rooted in their conflicting opinions on cabinet nominations within the PPRP’s quota. Despite the noise, Capt Thamanat has remained steadfast, asserting that he never submitted an alternative list of nominees to the Pheu Thai party. Interestingly, whispers in the political corridors suggested that Capt Thamanat was conversing with key elements in the opposition Democrat Party, aiming for a possible deal that could secure cabinet seats for both sides. These murmurs have been robustly denied by Capt Thamanat.
Speculation also has it that Capt Thamanat was initially dropped from PPRP’s nomination list due to concerns over his eligibility, which only intensified the friction between him and Gen Prawit. In a candid remark, Chaiwut Thanakomanusorn, a deputy leader of PPRP, asserted, “If any nomination is later found to be ineligible [for a cabinet minister appointment] or suggested [by Pheu Thai] to be changed, the PPRP’s board will approve a new one.”
Meanwhile, Pol Lt Gen Piya Tawichai, the spokesperson for PPRP, rubbished rumors of Gen Prawit contemplating stepping down as the party leader. Adding a layer of complexity, caretaker Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai commented that the PPRP’s list of nominated MPs was still not finalized. He acknowledged that Pheu Thai had imposed a deadline for the PPRP to finalize its nominations but refrained from confirming or denying the possibility of the Democrat Party joining the coalition to expedite the formation of the new government.
As the political gears continue to turn, the unfolding drama within the PPRP and its coalition dealings promise a riveting political season. With the stakes so high, every move, every nod, and every sigh could resonate through the halls of Thailand’s government for years to come.
This is a clear indication of political instability. How can the same old faces bring any real change?
Change isn’t always about new faces, sometimes experience counts more.
Exactly! We need people who know the ropes, not rookies.
Experience is good, but fresh ideas are better. The old guard has failed us before.
Experience can also mean holding onto power and old corrupt practices. We need fresh blood.
It’s not about old vs. new. It’s about who can actually do the job RIGHT.
Gen Prawit needs to step down. His leadership is creating more havoc than harmony.
But who would take over? Not sure if there’s anyone capable enough.
Almost anyone would be better. Look at the mess we are in!
Political drama in Thailand never seems to end. When will they focus on real issues like education and healthcare?
Right? It’s all about power games. The people are the ones who suffer.
Education and healthcare should be top priorities. All this political infighting is a waste.
Exactly, they need to get their priorities straight.
Capt Thamanat should just leave PPRP and join another party if he’s so unhappy.
That’s easier said than done. Politics isn’t a game.
It might as well be, given how they are playing with our future.
I think it’s ridiculous that Capt Thamanat is still in politics after all his controversies.
Totally agree, it’s like they have no moral compass.
Exactly, can’t believe people actually trust him.
Flood relief efforts are crucial, but using them as an excuse to miss important meetings is shady.
Maybe, but flood victims need help too. Tough situation.
True, but political responsibilities must be balanced.
PPRP is just a sinking ship. They won’t last another election cycle.
I think it’s strategic for Pheu Thai to keep a few familiar faces. It ensures continuity.
Continuity of what? Their political blunders?
Stability. The country needs a period of calm.
This situation sounds more like a soap opera than politics. Drama, drama, drama.
So typical. It’s always the same politicians moving around like musical chairs.
I doubt the coalition will survive the year, let alone the term.
They said the same thing last time. And look, they’re still around.
Still, this internal conflict makes them look weak.
Why does Pheu Thai even bother with PPRP? They should look to new alliances.
Because politics is about pragmatism, not idealism.
But aligning with unreliable partners will only backfire.
The infighting is at a level I’ve never seen before. Ridiculous!
At the end of the day, the people suffer while these politicians play their games.
Sad but true. When will politicians realize this?
Hopefully sooner rather than later, but I won’t hold my breath.