Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime Minister’s secretary-general, is playing a pivotal role in the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)
In a remarkable turn of events, the new coalition has managed to gather an impressive 322 supporters in the 500-seat Parliament. This leap in support came after the former opposition, the Democrat Party, decided to align with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s faction. For their somewhat contentious decision, the Democrats secured two significant cabinet portfolios. On Friday, Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime Minister’s secretary-general, proclaimed that with the Democrats on board, the coalition’s support had confidently swelled to 322 votes. This is out of the currently seated 493 MPs—seven seats remain vacant.
Here’s a breakdown of the MPs rallying behind the new coalition government:
- Pheu Thai: 141
- Bhumjaithai: 70
- United Thai Nation: 36
- Democrat: 25
- Chartthaipattana: 10
- Prachachart: 9
- Chart Pattana: 3
- Faction of Thamanat Prompow (from Palang Pracharath): 21
The Democrat Party’s endorsement has significantly bolstered the government’s strength, despite facing fierce resistance from veteran politicians and die-hard party loyalists. Among those objecting are former leaders Chuan Leekpai, Banyat Bantadtan, and Jurin Laksanawisit, who steadfastly oppose any political coalition with Pheu Thai.
On Thursday night, leading Democrat executives made a strategic move by proposing their leader Chalermchai Sri-on for the role of natural resources and environment minister. Additionally, they suggested appointing their secretary-general, Dej-id Kaothong, as the deputy minister of public health. This decision was officially communicated to Pheu Thai by the Democrat Party.
Dr. Prommin emphasized that Pheu Thai is rigorously verifying the qualifications and backgrounds of the nominated cabinet ministers before presenting the approved list for royal endorsement.
On August 14, the Constitutional Court delivered a bombshell ruling: then-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was found guilty of a gross violation of ethics for appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister. This controversial decision led to Mr. Srettha’s dismissal after a mere few months in office.
The Parliament did not lose time and promptly elected Ms. Paetongtarn to replace the ousted Prime Minister just two days after the court’s ruling.
This coalition is a disaster waiting to happen. The Democrats aligning with Pheu Thai? It’s like oil and water!
What else were they supposed to do? Join the losing side and remain irrelevant?
There are principles, Sammy. The Democrats stand for something, but maybe not anymore.
Principles or not, they need to have a seat at the table. Without power, their ‘principles’ mean nothing.
I agree with Anna B. Completely erodes their credibility.
Honestly, this coalition seems like a smart political move. It’s about time someone did something different.
Different doesn’t always mean good. This coalition is fragile, just waiting to implode.
Why is everyone making such a big deal? Governments change, alliances change. It’s politics.
Because such shifts reflect deeper issues. People aren’t just worried about alliances, it’s about the policies they’ll push through.
I get that, but can’t we at least wait to see what they do before jumping to conclusions?
Can’t ignore history though. The past actions of these parties predict their future moves.
Pheu Thai shouldn’t trust the Democrats. They’ll backstab them as soon as they get what they want.
True, but isn’t that always the risk in coalition politics?
Risk? More like a certainty! Just watch.
Pheu Thai has always been strategic. They must have calculated these risks before making the deal.
This is actually a good opportunity for Paetongtarn Shinawatra to prove her leadership skills.
She’s just another Shinawatra. Same agenda, different face.
Give her a chance, Joe. At least she’s not Srettha Thavisin!
I don’t understand the fuss. Paetongtarn seems competent and has a chance to bring real change.
The coalition will collapse within six months. Mark my words.
Bold prediction, but history might just be on your side.
Adding Thamanat Prompow’s faction feels like a desperate move. What value do they bring?
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Plus, every vote counts.
21 votes, that’s what! Adds significant weight to the coalition.
Honestly, it’s all about power consolidation. Ideals are secondary. Typical politics.
But should we accept that? Shouldn’t we demand better from our leaders?
Demanding and getting are two different things. This is the political reality we live in.
Back in the day, coalitions were more stable. Nowadays, they’re just a mess waiting to happen.
Anyone else think Paetongtarn is just a puppet for her family’s interests? History speaks volumes.
Everyone deserves a fair shot, even if their family has a controversial history.
Fair enough, Helen. But old habits die hard.
With 7 seats still vacant, they could be the game-changers. Just waiting to see who fills them.
New generation leaders like Paetongtarn can bring fresh ideas! Time to move on from the past.
Fresh ideas or recycled promises? Let’s not get our hopes too high.
Ethical politics is a myth. Why trust any of these parties?
We don’t have much choice but to trust somebody. Cynicism leads to nowhere.
True, but blind faith is equally dangerous.
With such conflicting interests, how long can this coalition possibly last?
Good point. Their agendas are too varied. It’ll be a game of compromise at best.