“We want to ensure each cabinet minister is a perfect fit,” stated Mr. Phumtham, who stepped into the role of acting prime minister following Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal by the Constitutional Court. “The cabinet line-up is nearly complete. Once it receives royal endorsement, we’ll dive straight into work,” he added with palpable determination.
The suspense is set to culminate by week’s end with the final cabinet list drawing near completion, as previously indicated by Mr. Phumtham. Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime Minister’s Secretary-General, confirmed yesterday that securing a robust majority for the government was key, now enhanced by the Democrats’ participation.
The coalition government currently boasts an impressive roster: 141 MPs from Pheu Thai, 70 from Bhumjaithai Party, 36 from United Thai Nation Party, 25 Democrats, 10 from Charthaipattana Party, three from Chart Pattana, and 21 from Capt Thamanat Prompow’s faction within the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP).
The Democrat Party’s move to join forces with Pheu Thai has sparked controversy, particularly among seasoned politicians and dedicated party members. Notable figures like former leaders Chuan Leekpai, Banyat Bantadtan, and Jurin Laksanawisit have expressed vehement opposition to any alliance with Pheu Thai. Despite the backlash, key Democrat executives declared on Thursday night that the party aims to nominate leader Chalermchai Sri-on as the natural resources and environment minister and secretary-general Det-it Khaothong as deputy public health minister.
Meanwhile, intrigue abounds within the PPRP, reportedly divided into two factions: one led by Gen Prawit Wongsuwon and the other by party secretary-general Capt Thamanat, who also serves as the caretaker agriculture minister. Capt Thamanat, hinting at severed ties with a revered figure in the PPRP, implied Gen Prawit, yet stated his group would remain with the party unless expelled, which would then allow them to transition seamlessly to another party while retaining their MP status.
In an unexpected twist, when Pheu Thai decided to part ways with the PPRP, it seemingly targeted Gen Prawit’s faction. However, the Thamanat faction appears to be in favor, with Pheu Thai inclining towards incorporating them into the cabinet or appointing individuals associated with the group to ministerial positions.
Amidst these political maneuvers, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, clarifying Pheu Thai’s strategic alignment with the Democrats, stressed the necessity of a stable government to uphold parliamentary majority following the PPRP’s exclusion. “We require stability. We need sufficient parliamentary support to pass laws to resolve the people’s concerns. The Democrats’ backing is crucial for this,” she articulated.
She further elaborated that the current executives of the Democrat Party differ from their predecessors, encouraging progressiveness: “We must move forward.” When asked about the potential discontent among red-shirt supporters due to the new alliance, Ms Paetongtarn asserted, “I empathize with the red shirts, but I vowed to be a prime minister for all Thais.”
Reflecting on a turbulent chapter of recent history, tensions between the Democrat and Pheu Thai parties peaked in 2010 when then-Democrat Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva ordered police action against Pheu Thai-backed red-shirt protesters at Ratchaprasong intersection, a tragic confrontation resulting in 85 fatalities, predominantly protesters.
With the political landscape evolving and alliances reshaping the future, all eyes are on the Pheu Thai-led coalition. The anticipation grows as the nation waits to see how this new government will navigate Thailand’s challenges and opportunities.
This coalition might just be the shake-up Thai politics needs! Combining forces could lead to more stability.
Or it could just be political maneuvering with no real change. Look at past coalitions; they promised much but delivered little.
Agreed, Aimee. Politicians promise stability but they’re just after power. What’s new?
True, but let’s not dismiss a coalition government outright. It could bring balance if they can work together.
I doubt it. These parties have too much bad blood, especially after the 2010 crackdown which was brutal.
Aligning with the Democrats is a betrayal to the red shirts. How can anyone justify this alliance?
It’s a pragmatic move for Pheu Thai. They need the numbers, simple as that.
I think it’s more about moving forward, as Paetongtarn said. Holding grudges won’t benefit anyone.
Moving forward shouldn’t mean forgetting the past. Some betrayals cut too deep.
The vetting process for ministers sounds rigorous, but how transparent will it actually be?
Probably not very. Politicians always say one thing and do another. The real test is in their actions once they’re in office.
Indeed, accountability in Thai politics has always been an issue. We need watchdog organizations to keep an eye on them.
I’m just happy to see a government finally forming. Thailand needs direction.
Agreed, but at what cost? Are we sacrificing principles for stability?
Sometimes sacrifices are necessary for the greater good.
A coalition with Pheu Thai? That’s like Democrats teaming up with Republicans in the US! Unbelievable.
I think the Democrats are just desperate to stay relevant. This coalition is their way of clinging to power.
Capt Thamanat’s faction sticking with PPRP? Interesting move. Wonder what he’s leveraging here.
He’s a political survivor, that’s for sure. He knows how to play the game.
The Pheu Thai-Democrat alliance is certainly controversial, but it might be the only way to ensure majority support in parliament.
I’m curious to see if this new cabinet list actually brings in capable leaders or just political puppets.
Thailand has always needed strong leadership. Hopefully, this coalition delivers.
Paetongtarn’s comments about governing for all Thais sound good, but actions speak louder than words.
Stability is crucial, but it’s hard to have faith in politicians who have such a sordid history.
What about the PPRP split? Sounds like internal conflicts could destabilize the coalition.
Gen Prawit’s faction being sidelined is telling. It’s all about picking the right allies.
This coalition is just a band-aid for deeper issues. The real problems in Thai politics run much deeper.
The Democrats have lost their way. Their founding principles are being compromised.
Let’s hope the new cabinet tackles real issues like economic growth and corruption.
The young generation wants change. Let’s see if this coalition can deliver on that front.
A coalition government might create more compromises than solutions. Too many cooks can spoil the broth.
I think the coalition has potential, but only if they put national interests above party politics.