Bangkok: The new cabinet list of Paethongtarn is circulating following the Bhumjaithai Party's decision to withdraw and join the opposition, leading to eight vacant cabinet positions. The latest reshuffle in the Ministry of Interior includes Prasert Chantarawongthong, currently Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, who is set to become the Interior Minister, succeeding Anutin Charnvirakul. Prasert has indicated his readiness to serve in any capacity assigned by the Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, the position of Deputy Minister of Interior is expected to be shared by Sermsak Pongpanich and Decha-ism Khaothong, with the latter currently serving as Deputy Minister of Public Health from the Democrat Party. Meanwhile, it is anticipated that Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, the current Deputy Defense Minister, will be appointed as the Defense Minister. There are also rumors that Gen. Sunai Prapuchanay, a former commander of the Special Warfare Command, might be considered for the role, replacing Phumtham Vejjayachai, who is poised to become Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce.
The role of Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation is expected to be filled by Air Chief Marshal Anudit Nakornthap, the strategy chairman of the Kla Tham Party. Additionally, Chatuporn Buruspat, currently the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, is vying for the position of Minister of Digital Economy and Society. Varawut Silpa-archa, currently the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, is set to become the Minister of Education.
Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Chachoengsao MP from the Klatham Party, is expected to take on the role of Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives. His father, Itthi Sirilatthayakorn, is presently serving as the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
The Democrat Party has finalized its ministerial positions, with Chalermchai Sri-on continuing as the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment or potentially assuming the role of Deputy Prime Minister. Chaichana Dechadecho, an MP for Nakhon Si Thammarat, is considered for the position of deputy minister of commerce or deputy minister of public health.