Bangkok: Somsak Thepsuthin, the Minister of Public Health, was seen offering encouragement to Phumtham Vejjayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, before a Cabinet meeting. The interaction occurred in front of Building 1, where Mr. Phumtham was waiting to receive the Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, upon his arrival, Mr. Somsak stopped to greet Mr. Phumtham and embraced him, prompting reporters to inquire about the gesture. Mr. Somsak humorously remarked that he was comforting Mr. Phumtham, to which Mr. Phumtham responded in kind, saying he was also comforting Mr. Somsak. The lighthearted exchange ended with both ministers laughing before proceeding into the building.
The interaction took place against the backdrop of speculation about a cabinet reshuffle. Rumors suggest that the Public Health Minister's role might be exchanged with the Bhumjaithai Party for control over the Interior Ministry.