Bangkok: "Phumtham" insists that the power to adjust the cabinet lies with the Prime Minister, passing the blame to the Palang Pracharath Party to sort things out among themselves. Phumtham emphasizes that the principle of nominating names must adhere to the party's resolution, indicating that the Palang Pracharath Party needs to clarify matters internally.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, addressed the ongoing issues surrounding the cabinet reshuffle. He stated that Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, had not communicated any changes. The final decision rests solely with the Prime Minister, who evaluates the situation independently. On June 10, Phumtham mentioned he had not yet had the opportunity to discuss the matter with the Prime Minister.
When questioned about the potential internal conflicts within the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party (RTSC) affecting government formation, Mr. Phumtham underscored the importance of adhering to existing agreements. He noted that the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party must resolve its issues internally and reach a consensus to move forward.
Regarding the situation where 21 MPs from the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party signed a petition urging a cabinet reshuffle and seeking the Prime Minister's intervention, Mr. Phumtham remarked that such matters are personal opinions and should be managed internally by the party. He assured that the cabinet's functionality remains intact, though external sentiments might suggest otherwise.
During the cabinet meeting on June 10, Mr. Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, who leads the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, did not attend but was present at Government House. Mr. Phumtham commented that he was unaware of the reasons behind Mr. Pirapan's absence and suggested looking into any obstacles he might have faced.
When asked about differing opinions among the MPs of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, Mr. Phumtham reiterated the importance of adhering to party resolutions for cabinet adjustments. He stated that any proposals for cabinet positions should align with party resolutions and qualifications should be thoroughly vetted. Party leaders must deliberate and propose names, while acknowledging that the Prime Minister holds the discretion to make final decisions.