Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin faced a flurry of questions from reporters on Tuesday at Government House, addressing swirling rumours that the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) might be ousted from the government. The rumours surfaced from an interview given by Thaksin Shinawatra, the perceived kingmaker of the Pheu Thai party. But Srettha was unequivocal. “Palang Pracharath remains a steadfast coalition partner,” he asserted, dismissing any notion of avoiding a meeting with Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, the party’s influential leader.
The buzz began after 40 caretaker senators filed a petition with the Constitutional Court. Their beef? They argue that Srettha should be booted from office over an “ethical violation” tied to his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, who had a criminal record, to the cabinet. Although Pichit stepped down almost immediately, the court has agreed to review the case, with the next hearing slated for July 10. Thaksin hinted in his interview that Gen Prawit might be the mastermind behind the senators’ move.
The senators in question, who largely abstained from voting for Srettha during his prime ministerial bid last year, are known loyalists of Gen Prawit. This isn’t shocking, considering Prawit orchestrated the appointment of nearly all Senate members back in 2019. However, Deputy Prime Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, also the chief adviser to the PPRP, tamped down on the rumoured discord. “I haven’t even talked to Gen Prawit about this,” he stated, though he sidestepped a definitive answer on the coalition’s unity with a cryptic, “I don’t know.”
Amid the political tempest, Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow, who also serves as secretary-general of Palang Pracharath, expressed gratitude for Srettha’s supportive words. Thamanat announced that the PPRP was planning to host a dinner for all coalition members soon, though the exact date was yet to be determined. “We’re setting the table and the mood for coalition camaraderie,” he added with a hint of optimism.
When probed whether Gen Prawit would grace the dinner with his presence, Thamanat revealed that the 78-year-old warhorse often skips such gatherings due to poor health. “It’s just too inconvenient for him, so he usually sends a representative,” Thamanat explained, underscoring the challenges of sustaining coalition harmony when one of its pivotal players grapples with health issues.
While the skies over the government house appear clouded with speculation, Prime Minister Srettha’s stance seemed level-headed and measured. As the court anticipates the high-stakes hearing, political observers will be keeping a keen eye on how these undercurrents stir the waters of Thailand’s political landscape. Until then, all eyes are on that upcoming coalition dinner—where unity will presumably be served alongside the Pad Thai.
This reeks of political maneuvering. PPRP’s days might be numbered, and Srettha knows it.
You might be overreacting. Politics is always messy, but Srettha seems in control.
Control? He’s dancing around serious allegations! Keeping PPRP is just lip service.
Ever heard of political theater? It’s common to show unity on the surface while plotting behind the scenes.
I think the court’s decision on July 10 will be crucial. If Srettha is found guilty, it’ll shake things up big time.
The court is biased. They’ll rule in favor of whoever has the most power right now.
Not necessarily. Sometimes courts do the unexpected. This could go either way.
True, but in Thai politics, power dynamics are everything. Don’t underestimate Prawit’s influence.
Why do these political figures always have murky pasts? Pichit Chuenban’s appointment was a mistake from the start!
Agreed. But it’s not uncommon for leaders to overestimate the loyalty of their appointees.
Indeed, the history of Thai politics is filled with controversial figures. It’s a cycle.
This ‘dinner’ talk sounds like a desperate PR stunt to me. Actual unity? I doubt it.
Anyone else notice how Gen Prawit is always ‘conveniently’ absent due to health? Seems like a way to avoid hard questions.
Let’s not forget that Thaksin is the real power player here. His moves will dictate the outcome more than anything Srettha does.
Yeah, Thaksin’s influence can’t be ignored. He’s the puppet master behind many decisions.
Exactly. It feels like Srettha is just playing his part in Thaksin’s grand plan.
But Thaksin’s influence might be waning. The new generation isn’t as loyal to him.
Honestly, I think the coalition dinner is a good idea. It’s better than letting rumors tear them apart.
These politicians are all the same. They’ll say whatever to stay in power.
Cannot believe this drama. They should focus more on governance rather than petty internal politics.
Typical. Another coalition falling apart because of internal strife. It’s like watching a soap opera.
Except this ‘soap opera’ affects millions of lives. It’s serious business.
True, but they all seem to forget the people’s interests once they’re in power.
Mark my words, Srettha won’t last long. Too many enemies.
Do you think Srettha will survive this ethical violation case?
Not likely. The court’s gonna make an example out of him.
If that happens, what will the consequences be for the coalition?
The coalition could crumble and dissolve, leaving a power vacuum.
Politics in Thailand is fascinating but also infuriating. It’s like they never get it right.
Gen Prawit’s health excuse is getting old. Time for new leadership.
What’s the point of holding a coalition dinner if the key player doesn’t even show up?
Srettha should prioritize transparency. It’s the only way to regain trust.
Agreed. Secrecy breeds more mistrust, which is the last thing they need right now.
Political instability. That’s what this all boils down to.
Watch as the coalition struggles. Predictable but entertaining.