New Cabinet Set for Reshuffle as Thorough Background Checks Begin
PUBLISHED: 20 Aug 2024 at 08:25
In a significant move towards forming a new cabinet, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced rigorous background checks for all ministerial candidates. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with legal standards and prevent any potential controversies that could jeopardize the new administration.
During her remarks at the National Defence College, Ms. Paetongtarn expressed optimism that the ruling coalition, which includes the Pheu Thai Party she leads and ten additional parties, will finalize cabinet agreements this week.
Having recently been elected as Thailand’s 31st prime minister, Ms. Paetongtarn, at 37, stands as the youngest individual to hold this office. She received overwhelming support from the House of Representatives, marking a significant milestone in her political career.
In a strategic discussion held on Monday, Pheu Thai’s leadership deliberated over potential ministerial candidates, with plans for further consultations scheduled for Tuesday.
Reports indicate that Ms. Paetongtarn is not committed to retaining all members of the previous cabinet, which was led by Srettha Thavisin, who was recently dismissed by the Constitutional Court for an ethics breach involving the appointment of an ex-convict.
“It is imperative that we meticulously assess the qualifications of those aspiring to become cabinet ministers to prevent any missteps,” Ms. Paetongtarn stated, reflecting on the recent challenges faced by the outgoing government.
To ensure a thorough vetting process, the Council of State will be tasked with reviewing the qualifications of ministerial candidates, while coalition partners will also conduct preliminary screenings before submitting their selections.
Amid speculation, Ms. Paetongtarn clarified that Pheu Thai would not reclaim the interior minister position previously held by Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul.
Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that Pheu Thai has requested coalition partners to submit their ministerial choices to ensure a comprehensive qualification review by the Council of State, thereby avoiding any legal complications.
In light of recent judicial decisions, both the Council of State and the cabinet secretariat are set to implement thorough checks on potential candidates. The coalition parties are anticipated to present their candidate lists by Tuesday.
Furthermore, speculation surrounds caretaker Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Capt Thamanat Prompow, who may also face additional scrutiny due to his past conviction related to drug offenses in Australia during the 1990s.
