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In a significant reshuffle, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin unveiled his second cabinet, introducing key changes and retaining strategic positions amidst political maneuvers aimed at bolstering the government’s effectiveness and addressing factional interests within the coalition.
The reshuffle sees the introduction of new roles and the redistribution of key ministerial portfolios. Suriya Juangroongruangkit from the Pheu Thai Party not only retains his role as Transport Minister but also steps up as Deputy Prime Minister, reflecting his increasing prominence within the party. Pichai Chunhavajira is another notable addition, assuming the position of Deputy Prime Minister and taking over the crucial Finance Ministry, a move seen as essential given the complex economic challenges facing Thailand.
In contrast, Cholanan Srikaew departs from the Health Ministry after a turbulent tenure that lasted less than a year, during which he grappled with coalition politics that ultimately impacted his personal and political reputation. The Health Ministry will now be overseen by Somsak Thepsuthin, a veteran in Thai politics, signaling stability and continued influence of his political faction.
Meanwhile, the Defense Ministry remains under the leadership of Suthin Klangsaeng, a decision that quells rumors of his departure. His unexpected fit for the role, given his educational background and lack of military experience, was offset by his political affiliations and connections within the Red Shirt movement, underscoring the complex interplay of military and political spheres in Thai governance.
Tourism and sports, sectors critical for Thailand’s soft power and economic recovery post-pandemic, will now be led by Sermsak Pongpanit, replacing a first-time MP with little experience in the field.
The cabinet reshuffle also reflects the intricate balance of power within the coalition government. The Palang Pracharath Party, a key coalition partner, sees a slight setback as their expectations for a ministerial position from the Khamphangphet faction were unmet, instead appointing a deputy minister from Chachoengsao. This decision aligns with earlier media speculations about internal party visions and the strategic distribution of roles within the Agriculture Ministry.
Notably absent from the reshuffle are significant changes within the Bhumjaithai Party’s quota, which maintains control over Education and Higher Education Ministries, continuing its mandate to steer the development of Thailand’s human capital.
The reshuffle was not without its controversies. The resignation of Foreign Minister Parnpree, following the removal of his Deputy Prime Minister title, marked a significant political casualty. His departure is seen as a blow to the cabinet’s stability, as he was widely regarded as an effective member whose performance had garnered bipartisan approval.