On an eventful August 22, Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai accompanied Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the City Pillar Shrine in Bangkok. This momentous occasion, captured by Chanat Katanyu, set the stage for an intriguing political landscape.
As the week draws to a close, all eyes are on the lineup of the new cabinet, which is expected to be finalized by the end of the week. Phumtham Wechayachai, who stepped in as acting prime minister following Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal by the Constitutional Court, has ensured that the government will hit the ground running. Once the policy statement is presented before parliament next month, the Pheu Thai Party aims to tackle the country’s pressing problems head-on.
“We are doing everything in our power to have the new cabinet line-up ready by the end of the week,” Phumtham stated with confidence. Upon finalization, the list of new ministers will be submitted to His Majesty the King for royal endorsement. Only after the King’s approval will the ministers take their oath of office and convene to strategize the policy statement, which is anticipated to be announced in the second week of September.
The formation of this new cabinet isn’t without its challenges. Phumtham highlighted that the number of candidates proposed by coalition allies surpasses the 35 positions available under the constitution. “Each party is preparing for the possibility that one or more of their candidates may be declared ineligible to assume a cabinet post,” he elaborated. The Constitutional Court’s stringent ethical standards have taken center stage, especially after the dismissal of ex-PM Srettha for appointing former convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister.
Despite the optimistic outlook, Phumtham remained tight-lipped about speculation regarding a possible invitation to the Democrat Party, Pheu Thai’s long-time rival, to join the coalition government. “I cannot comment on the matter. It will become clear once the new ministers are royally endorsed,” he remarked.
The rumor mill, however, has been abuzz with whispers that the Democrat Party could clinch two ministerial positions. If these reports hold water, party leader Chalermchai Sri-on might take the helm as Natural Resources and Environment Minister, while secretary-general Det-it Khaothong could secure a deputy minister position—contingent, of course, on their joining the coalition. These roles were initially earmarked for the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), led by Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, who sources suggest may be sidelined in this new Pheu Thai-led administration.
The buzz around the Democrat Party’s potential pivot intensified after former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, at the Vision for Thailand forum, announced that the new government, helmed by his daughter, would feature Democrat members. This was Thaksin’s first public appearance in Thailand in 17 years, and his words carried significant weight.
Deputy Democrat secretary-general Chaichana Detdecho’s presence at the forum only fanned the flames of speculation. Still, Deputy Democrat leader Narapat Kaewthong remained cautious, stating on Sunday that the party had yet to receive an official invitation from Pheu Thai. Should an invitation arrive, the party’s executives and MPs would convene for a thorough discussion before making any decisions. Addressing the historic rivalry between the Democrats and Pheu Thai, Narapat emphasized, “Politicians must put the public interest before anything else.”
As Thailand stands on the cusp of significant political shifts, the next few days promise to be both thrilling and transformative. Will the Democrat Party join hands with Pheu Thai in a new coalition government? How will the finalized cabinet lineup shape the future policy direction? The nation watches with bated breath, eager to see the next act in this unfolding political drama.
Interesting developments! I wonder if the inclusion of the Democrats will stabilize the Pheu Thai-led government or just lead to more infighting.
Stabilize? More like complicate things. The Democrats and Pheu Thai have a long history of butting heads.
It’s not about history; it’s about the future. If they can set aside their differences for the good of the country, why not?
I think Ellen might be right. Sometimes strange bedfellows can lead to surprising alliances and positive outcomes.
I don’t trust Phumtham at all. How can we rely on a guy who just stepped in after the last PM was dismissed?
Phumtham seems competent and experienced. We should give him a chance before writing him off.
Nita, past replacements have been disasters. Remember how chaotic it got after Thaksin? Same risk here.
Past isn’t always prologue. Besides, the Constitutional Court is watching closely. They won’t let just anyone run the show.
Is anyone concerned about the amount of power the Constitutional Court is wielding here? They’re basically kingmakers.
Absolutely, Simone. It’s almost undemocratic. Courts should interpret laws, not play political puppet masters.
They’re doing their job. Someone has to uphold ethical standards, especially with politicians being so corrupt.
Yuki78, I agree ethics are crucial, but there needs to be a balance. Too much control can stifle democracy.
It’s going to be a mess if they can’t agree on the cabinet lineup before the week’s end. What happens then?
Jules, if they miss the deadline, it could delay the policy presentations and the government’s plans for addressing urgent issues.
Does anyone have concerns about Chalermchai becoming the Natural Resources and Environment Minister? His past record isn’t exactly green-friendly.
That’s a valid point. We need someone who genuinely cares about the environment, not just filling a role.
EarthLover23, politicians are often more flexible than they seem. Maybe Chalermchai will surprise us with a more eco-friendly approach.
Thaksin’s involvement doesn’t sit well with me. His daughter’s government, his forum appearance—it’s like he’s pulling the strings from behind the curtain.
It’s all about legacy. He wants to ensure his vision for Thailand is realized, even if he can’t be in the driver’s seat.
Sarah, that’s politics for you. Dynasties are common worldwide. If they bring stability and progress, why not?
Anyone else find it ironic that Democrat leaders are considering joining their longtime rivals? Politics make strange bedfellows.
Narapat’s cautious approach is wise. Rushing into a coalition without thorough consideration could backfire badly.
This coalition might collapse before it starts, given the number of candidates and limited positions.
Optimistic about the new administration. Hoping for real progress on national issues now.
Anyone think this new line-up could potentially address the economic inequalities in the country? That’s the pressing issue everyone seems to overlook.
Ellen, if they can stop squabbling and focus on policies, maybe. But it’s a long shot given Thai politics.
Economic inequality has been ignored for too long. The new ministers have a mountain to climb, but it’s not impossible.
What if the King doesn’t endorse some of the candidates? Could that trigger another political crisis?
Joey, if that happens, it would definitely throw a wrench in the works. Not unprecedented in Thai politics though.
Phumtham’s confidence is reassuring, but we’ve heard empty promises before. I’ll believe it when I see it.
Will they actually address corruption, or will it be the same story all over again?
This political drama is fascinating. Thailand’s governance transition will be a case study in balancing tradition and modernity.