"Phumtham" explains that "Prime Minister Yingluck" is concerned about the people affected by the floods, admitting that she does not yet have full authority to give orders, but she can still help as the leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, in his capacity as acting Prime Minister, spoke about the criticism of Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister, for not going to the area to perform her duties while the people were suffering from the floods. He said that Ms. Paethongtarn had been elected by the House of Representatives as Prime Minister, but there were still various steps that required royal approval and an oath-taking, including the government's policy statement to the parliament. Once the various processes were completed, he would have the power to give orders. He also confirmed that the Prime Minister was concerned and was watching to provide assistance, both in the name of the Pheu Thai Party leader and in his personal capacity. M r. Phumtham said that as the government and himself acting as the Prime Minister, he must go to the area and solve the problem directly. He will give full orders to move everything forward. In addition, civil servants in various departments are determined to solve the water problem, and the government is ready to listen and join forces to solve it fully. Source: Thai News Agency
