Thailand and the new coalition government

The Constitutional Court voted 5:4 to remove Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from the office today, after finding him guilty of gross ethical misconduct over his appointment of former convict Phichit Chuenban, a long-time lawyer for the Shinawatra family, as prime minister’s office minister.


The court also ruled that the entire cabinet was to be removed from the office.


The court ruled that the prime minister had displayed a “lack of evident integrity” over Phichit’s appointment, because it was common knowledge that Phichit had been sentenced to six-months in prison for contempt of court by the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders over a bribery case and is, therefore, not qualified to become a minister.


The court dismissed as unacceptable the prime minister’s argument that he is a businessman and is not familiar with legal matters, noting that Phichit’s past was widely known.


The prime minister was fully aware of Phichit’s imprisonment and that he might have qualification problems if appointed as a minister and Srettha had, therefore, consulted the Council of State.


Phichit’s name was not on the first list of cabinet ministers, but appeared on a second, after the prime minister had met with “someone”, whose name was not mentioned by the court. That list was subsequently submitted for Royal assent, said the court.


Such conduct by a prime minister was an indication that someone had influence over him, to the benefit of vested interests, which would be damaging to the premiership.


“The prime minister should have used his judgment, because integrity is an important general principle. The appointment of Phichit, despite the fact that his name had previously been withdrawn from the cabinet list, indicates that the prime minister lacks “evident integrity” and breached ethical standards,” said the court.

Srettha lacks evident integrity, says Constitutional Court

Thaksin’s 37-Year-Old Daughter Set to Become New Thai Premier
By Patpicha Tanakasempipat and Pathom Sangwongwanich
August 15, 2024 at 8:15AM EDT

(Bloomberg) -- Former Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter is set to become the Southeast Asian nation’s next prime minister, signaling policy continuity after another party member was ousted from the top job on Wednesday.


Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, will contest a parliamentary vote on Friday as the nominee of a multi-party group led by Pheu Thai Party. Her nomination was endorsed by the 11-member coalition that has more than 300 members in the 500-member House of Representatives, Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong told reporters.


The election of a new leader was necessitated by the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin as prime minister in an ethics violation case.


The youngest of Thaksin’s three children, Paetongtarn is the latest face of the influential Shinawatra clan that has dominated most Thai elections but routinely been booted out of office. She is set to become the second woman to become Thai prime minister after her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.


The elevation of Paetongtarn to the top job came after Srettha’s 11-month-old tenure saw his party’s popularity sliding while that of the now-disbanded Move Forward — the principal opponent of the pro-royalist establishment — steadily rising. The Shinawatra scion, in the company of her still popular father, is expected to counter the rise of the opposition People’s Party that’s seeking to reform lese majeste — a law that protects King Maha Vajiralongkorn and other top royals from criticism.


Thai Political Upheaval Shows Royalists Are Still in Charge


Some of the nation’s biggest pro-royalist conservative parties on Thursday rallied behind Pheu Thai, which is effectively controlled by Thaksin and his family, in a sign that a deal that brought the former leader back to Thailand following a prolonged exile was still intact.


“Paetongtarn’s nomination and support from coalition shows that the uneasy Pheu Thai-conservative pact still holds for now,” said Peter Mumford, Southeast Asia practice head at Eurasia Group. “But her ascendancy to the premiership would not end political stability risks in Thailand.”


A relative newcomer to politics — she formally joined Pheu Thai only in 2021 — Paetongtarn, popularly known as Ing, will also be the youngest Thai prime minister.


Economic Challenges


Paetongtarn’s appointment signals few changes to policies pursued by Srettha’s administration, which focused on bolstering growth through looser fiscal policies and tackling the high cost of living and near-record household debt. She’s advocated for lower interest rates and slammed the central bank, saying its autonomy posed an “obstacle” to resolving the country’s economic issues.


On Thursday, Paetongtarn vowed to “do everything in my capability” to pull Thailand out of the “economic crisis” with the support of the coalition. On her party’s controversial plan to distribute 10,000 baht ($286) each to an estimated 50 million adult Thais to stimulate the economy, she promised to review the plan once she takes power.


Other challenges awaiting the alumnus of the University of Surrey include finding ways to lift average annual economic growth of below 2% over the past decade, attract foreign investment into high-tech industries and stem the exodus of foreign funds from the nation’s stocks.


Thailand’s benchmark stock index is among the world’s worst performers this year with foreign funds withdrawing more than $3 billion during the period. The baht has lost about 2.7% this year, and foreign investors net sold $244 million of bonds in a sign that the notes are losing their appeal.


Paetongtarn’s experience in the private sector may come in handy in steering the economy. She was a key player in the Shinawatra business empire spanning a golf course and real estate to hospitality and telecommunications. She is listed as the largest shareholder of publicly traded property firm SC Asset Corp Pcl, with a 28.5% stake, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.


She is also chief executive officer of the hotel business of Rende Development Co., which cites the luxurious Rosewood Hotel in Bangkok as a major project.


Before assuming the premier’s role, Paetongtarn will need to relinquish her business roles and comply with share ownership rules, according to Thai laws.

Thaksin’s 37-Year-Old Daughter Set to Become New Thai Premier – BNN Bloomberg

http://youtu.be/2TnkJ8_BmSI?si=4zq3KuApT7OQVcGx

A 6 sec video ?

Even my own sex tapes is up to double that lenght !!!!


(including foreplay)

Ding Dong it's Papa's Ping Pong but the balls, net table, rule and judges are special inherited characteristics and it is hard for the ordinary person to fathom the depths of the trickledown economy, but many of the young see the contradistinction between patriarchal sponsor and Donosaur urine.

Hardly a big deal with Mankeypox rampant , if you notice any red blobs from a recent rerurnee from Africa, self isolate, don't check repro or Indowindow!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by helge

A 6 sec video ?

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For the folks with a limited attention span. ;)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Norton

Former Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter is set to become the Southeast Asian nation’s next prime minister

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I didn’t think he would put her at risk.

________

Digital wallet scheme remains unchanged

Caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat attempted to allay public concern today, that the “digital wallet” scheme may be scrapped, following the ousting of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his entire cabinet by the Constitutional Court.

He said that, since the Pheu Thai party remains the core party in the formation of the new administration, the scheme, which is the flagship policy of the party, will remain unchanged.

Nonetheless, he said that the party would leave the new prime minister to announce which policies the new government will pursue in his policy statement to parliament.

Julapun said that, for the time being, there are no changes to the scheme or to the timeline for the disbursement of the 10,000 baht one-time financial benefit.

He asked the public not to delete the “Thang Rath” app, a platform through which money is to be disbursed.

The caretaker cabinet is scheduled to meet this afternoon to appoint an acting prime minister, who is likely to be Phumtham Wechayachai of the Pheu Thai party.

The caretaker cabinet will also discuss government policies, including the digital wallet scheme, said Julapun.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by S Landreth

I didn’t think he would put her at risk.

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Thaksin and the monarchy are in bed together so I don't see risk to the daughter.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Norton

Thaksin and the monarchy are in bed together so I don't see risk to the daughter.

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Yeah, no chance of any such risk.
Worked out like a charm for those particular circles.

Two convenient judicial coups in the same week.

Some of us [you and I] could easily have seen this coming some time ago.
And others [who pretend to think they know]......?? Well. Whatever.

Great Thai theatre. Been witness to this forever.

^FO Jeff

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Norton

Thaksin and the monarchy are in bed together so I don't see risk to the daughter.

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Yeah. OK :)

The vote (at about 10:00 am); for the new Thai PM, should be live across most all Thai News channels

PPTV HD 36

- YouTube

still counting

- YouTube


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Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the new Thai PM

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more later

Paetongtarn, the 31st Prime Minister of Thailand

Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra was voted today as the 31st prime minister of Thailand, becoming the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the top position, following her father, Thaksin, and her aunt, Yingluck.

Paetongtarn becomes the 31st prime minister, replacing Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted by the Constitutional Court’s ruling.

She was the sole candidate nominated for the position. She won with 319 votes in favour, 145 votes against and 27 abstentions. She needed at least 248 votes to win the premiership.

Nicknamed Ung Ing, Paetongtarn, 37, becomes the youngest premier and the second female prime minister of Thailand.

She is the third child of Thaksin and Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra. Paetongtarn had delivered her second child during the general election campaign in May last year.

Paetongtarn is not in Parliament today for her nomination, as she does not hold MP status. Reports indicate she is following the developments from a building of the former Voice TV station.

Her victory was assured as the nine coalition parties under Srettha appeared in force yesterday at a press conference hosted by Pheu Thai to announce her nomination.

The party leaders unanimously stated their support for Paetongtarn as the new prime minister and confirmed they would not nominate other candidates to compete with her.

Her candidacy however came as a surprise, as Thaksin, her father, had hosted a meeting of government whip chiefs on Wednesday, during which they agreed to nominate Chaikasem Nitisiri, a Pheu Thai prime ministerial candidate.

However, on Thursday, the plot twisted when a meeting of Pheu Thai MPs at the party’s headquarters resolved to nominate Paetongtarn instead.

She told the press conference that she offered herself to be the prime minister and her parents would support her particularly her father, who was a former PM.

Fucking hell. Here we go again.

^I waiting to see where she will end up. Maybe, Dubai with her aunt. She could help her with babysitting/child care.
________

PM-designate excited to take on the role

PM-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra said today that she is grateful for the votes she received in parliament, which saw her elected as the new Prime Minister of Thailand.

She declined, however, to provide details of her plans for the country, stating that she will reveal them after receiving royal assent.

Paetongtarn was elected the 31st prime minister of the country by MPs this morning, two days after her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, was removed from officen by the charter court.

She was the only candidate to be nominated. “I really hope that I will be able to instil confidence, build equal opportunities and empower all Thais,” she said.

Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who was convicted of corruption charges and is currently on parole.

“My father has already congratulated me on my victory. He said he was happy to see me take the position ‘before he develops Alzheimer’s’ [sic],” she told the audience during a live broadcast.

She also spoke with her mother, who has always been concerned about her well-being. “I assured her that I will take care of myself,” Paetongtarn said.

In her first interview after being elected, Paetongtarn mentioned that she is very excited and that her hands are shaking.

“I have spoken in public many times, but this time, I felt so excited that I was just mumbling,” she said.

The whole famdamnly is there. :)

http://youtu.be/1rXBrQY7c7Q?si=DWoOleXZj5nT3djR

I hope she knows that when "they" turn on her she won't do her time like dad, in a nice comfortable hospital room....unless she suddenly becomes old and frail. And turn on her they will, just like Dad and Aunty. Why would any Shinawatra go in to politics with their family history?

Path to becoming prime minister not paved with roses

New PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra will face a number of obstacles, constitutional expert predicts

Associate Professor Jade Donavanik, former adviser to the Constitutional Drafting Committee, accurately predicted the outcome of the petition by 40 senators regarding the appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister. He said Srettha Thavisin's excuse of not knowing the law was untenable and predicted that Srettha would be removed from his position as prime minister.

Now, he forecasts the obstacles that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will face:

First Barrier: The Constitutional Court's ruling in Srettha’s case has raised the standards for evaluating political appointments, making the formation of a Cabinet challenging.

Second Barrier: There is a potential issue regarding the establishment of the government at Ban Chan Song La, Shinawatra’s residence, known as the "Ban Chan Song La Declaration" on August 14.

If during discussions at Ban Chan Song La, Paetongtarn was not present, it implies that Thaksin invited the participants to decide on the new prime minister. The question is whether this situation violates Article 29 of the Political Parties Act, which concerns domination and control over political parties, punishable by imprisonment for individuals involved and possible dissolution of the party under Articles 28 and 92.

Individuals involved could face imprisonment, while the political party could be in violation of Article 28 for allowing non-members to exert influence, potentially resulting in the dissolution of the party under Section 92 and a 10-year ban on its executive committee.

All parties involved in the discussions are at risk of dissolution because the government is being formed by someone who is not the party leader, and by someone who is still serving a prison sentence.

The proposed amendment to Article 112, the lese-majeste law – whether it follows the same approach previously suggested by the Move Forward Party and deemed unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court – needs clarification.

The digital wallet project – whether it is for all government parties, specifically for Pheu Thai, or just for Srettha – needs to be clarified. If it is for "former prime minister Srettha”, adjustments should be made, and the project should be discontinued with his departure.

If some ministers from the previous Cabinet are included in the new Cabinet, it should be examined whether any of them have violated ethical standards or had severe issues abroad, such as criminal cases or dismissal from service.

Jade also offers the following recommendations:

For forming the new Cabinet, the selection of ministers should be based on ethical standards.

Regarding the Ban Chan Song La Declaration, it is uncertain what recommendations can be given, as it seems to have already resulted in a violation.

For the amendment of Article 112, clear proposals are needed, focusing on enforcement and legal proceedings. Consider forming a committee to review cases, rather than leaving it to local police.

For the digital wallet project, it is essential to categorise the amounts based on necessity:

Essential: 5,000 baht
Highly Necessary: 3,000 baht
General Necessity: 2,000 baht

Combining amounts for three people to total 10,000 baht is preferred over giving 10,000 baht to one person. The total number of recipients would be less than 40-50 million, and other policies should be considered instead of just cash handouts.

________

China congratulates Paetongtarn on being elected Thailand’s new PM

Beijing expresses readiness to ‘carry forward the traditional friendship, and deepen practical cooperation’
China on Friday congratulated Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra on being elected the 31st prime minister of Thailand during a parliamentary session on Friday.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that China believes the people of Thailand will make new and greater achievements on the development path suited to Thailand's national conditions.

“China and Thailand are one family. The two countries are close and friendly neighbours, and will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year — an occasion that will bring new historic opportunities for the growth of bilateral relations,” the spokesperson said.

China stands ready to work with Thailand to carry forward the traditional friendship, step up strategic communication, deepen practical cooperation, and deliver more progress in building the China-Thailand community with a shared future, the spokesperson added.

Paetongtarn, 37, is the youngest daughter of Thailand’s 23rd PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who served from 2001-2006, and a niece of 28th PM Yingluck Shinawatra, who served from 2011 to 2014. Paetongtarn is the youngest PM-elect in Thailand’s history.

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Final count

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Paetongtarn Shinawatra officially becomes ThailandÂ’s 31st prime minister

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Pheu Thai party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra has officially become ThailandÂ’s 31st prime minister today, following the granting of Royal assent by His Majesty the King.

A ceremony was held this morning at the Voice Space building in Bangkok, the head office of the Pheu Thai party,where the Royal Command was read by the secretary-general of the House of Representatives Arpath Sukhanunth to Paetongtarn in front of a portrait of the King.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who became a free man today, several senior members of the Pheu Thai party and selected guests were present at the ceremony.

After the reading, the new prime minister said that she is honoured, proud and grateful for being royally appointed. She vowed that she will perform her duties using her utmost efforts with loyalty and honesty for the benefit of the country and the people.

For the remaining three years of the term of this parliament, she said that she will cooperate with the House with “an open heart” and be receptive to all divergent opinions.

The huge task ahead cannot be achieved by the prime minister alone, said Paetongtarn, as she appealed for cooperation from all sectors of Thai society in making Thailand a land of opportunity and happiness for all Thai people equally.

The Voice Space building was abuzz with activity as several core members of the Pheu Thai party, all dressed in official white suits and smiling, attended PaetongtarnÂ’s official appointment ceremony.

Paetongtarn, in her official white suit, was all smiles as she waved to an army of reporters and photographers. She told the media that she went to bed earlier than usual last night,because she was concerned that she might wake up late for the ceremony this morning.

She was later joined her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin, and other members of her family. Thaksin hugged the new prime minister as soon as he got out of his car and told reporters that he feels very happy for her.

Core members of the governing coalition parties also attended the ceremony and expressed their good wishes to the new prime minister.

New PM says “digital wallet” scheme needs to be reviewed

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra hinted today that the “digital wallet” scheme may need to be reviewed, due to a change in the country’s economic situation, and said that more feedback is needed, while offering an assurance that economic stimulus policies must continue.

In her first press conference since officially taking office, Paetongtarn dismissed media reports that her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin, wants the scheme to be scrapped, but did say that it will have to be re-examined and discussed among the coalition parties.

She claimed that the situation has changed since digital wallet scheme was initiated, so more study is needed, as well ensuring compliance with the established rules of fiscal discipline.

The previous administration launched the first stage of the scheme on August 1st, by opening public registration via smartphone. Millions of people have already registered.

Those who do not have smartphones can start registering on September 1st. Disbursement of the 10,000 baht per head financial benefit is scheduled for the last quarter of this year.

The prime minister denied that she was or will be controlled or dominated by Thaksin, insisting that she is independent and has her own opinions. She did admit, though, that she occasionally consults Thaksin and they have mutual respect for each other’s opinions.

Asked whether Thaksin will be given any post in the government, Paetongtarn said she has not thought about that issue yet and that she would have to consider the legal implications.

The prime minister said that, although she had worked with her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, for about a year, she had not expected to become prime minister so soon.

Nevertheless, she said she is ready to bear the burden, face the challenges and serve the people by addressing the pressing problems plaguing the economy, the health care system, illegal narcotics and the development of “soft” power.

She also denied a report claiming that Thaksin had made clear that no member of the Wongsuwan family would be included in the new cabinet.

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More than 16,500 victims of loan sharks helped by Finance Ministry

Ministry has helped debtors refinance their loans with non-banking creditors

The Finance Ministry and its partners have helped a total of 16,593 non-banking debtors saddled with illegally high interest rates refinance their debts so far, a senior official said on Sunday.

Pornchai Teeravej, director general of the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), said that after the government stepped in to help debtors of non-banking loans settle their debt, the ministry’s special banks and private partners had approved refinancing worth 783.13 million baht.

The operation started on December 1 and as of August 14, 16,593 debtors have refinanced their loans with non-banking creditors, Pornchai said.

The government’s banks that have joined the refinancing programmes were Government Savings Bank and the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives.

Pornchai said the government has also implemented several projects to help loan sharks’ victims, including a loan project for repaying non-banking loans, and a revolving fund to help poor farmers.

On August 2 alone, Pornchai said 738 debtors entered the refinancing programme.

He added that the ministry has also persuaded many non-banking creditors to register as pico-finance firms that are allowed to charge no more than 36% interest per annum.

New Cabinet expected to be finalised this week: Paetongtarn

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The coalition parties are scheduled to submit their lists of prospective cabinet members by tomorrow and the complete list of cabinet members is expected to be finalised this week, the new prime minister said today.

Regarding the quota of ministers from her Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that they will convene an internal meeting tomorrow.

She mentioned that she will hold personal discussions with the parties that have agreed to join her government, to complete its formation as soon as possible.

Meanwhile the Bhumjaithai party has submitted its list of eight proposed ministers, according to an informed party source.

The nominees are Anutin Charnvirakul, deputy prime minister and interior minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, education minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, labour minister, Supamas Isarabhakdi, minister of higher education, science, research and innovations, Songsak Thongsri, deputy interior minister, Chada Thaised, deputy interior minister, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, deputy education minister and Napintorn Srisunpang.

Paetongtarn, the leader of Pheu Thai, won the parliamentary vote last Friday, to replace Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office in a Constitutional Court ruling due to his appointment in a cabinet reshuffle of Phichit Chuenban, a lawyer who was jailed for six months for contempt of court.

The court ruled that the appointment of Phichit, who has a tainted background, violated the Constitution.

Paetongtarn told reporters that, therefore, the review of the backgrounds and qualifications of each minister under her government will take time, to ensure that no similar mistakes are made.

She said the entire process is expected to take no more than one month.

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai’s deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai, said that the coalition parties are required to send their lists of potential ministers to Dr Prommin Lertsuridej.

“Dr Prommin, the former PM’s secretary-general, will then forward the completed lists to Natjaree Anantasilp, secretary-general to the Cabinet secretariat, and then to the Council of State for background checks,” Phumtham said.

Responding to questions over the future of the coalition Palang Pracharath party, whose leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwan did not attend parliament on Friday to vote for the new premier, Phumtham said Prawit would be the best person to answer that question.

“Maybe he did not want to join the new government or something,” he added.

Prawit had not attended any political functions hosted by the former Srettha administration or parliamentary sessions, even though he went to parliament on many occasions.

__________

International community congratulates new Thai premier

Congratulatory messages from abroad have been arriving for Paetongtarn Shinawatra on her appointment as the 31st prime minister of Thailand, with many promising to work closely with her government.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Paetongtarn, stating that the US looks forward to working with her to strengthen the mutual alliance and partnership further.

With more than 190 years of shared history, the US.-Thai relationship is one of the most enduring.

“The US looks forward to continued close collaboration with Paetongtarn and her government to advance shared values and common interests in a free, open, connected, prosperous, secure and resilient Indo-Pacific region,” said Blinken.

US Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec posted on the United States Embassy’s X account, offering congratulations to Paetongtarn.

Calling the Thai premier by her nickname, Godec said, “I look forward to working with Ing Shinawa
tra and her government to continue building the close friendship and partnership between our nations.”

Singapore's PM Lawrence Wong also took to his X account to congratulate Paetongtarn, expressing confidence that the longstanding and multifaceted relationship between Singapore and Thailand, built by generations of leaders, will continue to flourish in the years ahead.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim congratulated the new PM on Sunday, acknowledging her historic achievement as the youngest-ever Thai prime minister and the second woman to hold the office.

On his Facebook page, Anwar noted that, as close neighbours, Malaysia and Thailand share a vital and enduring partnership, forged on long-standing historical, cultural and economic links, as well as deep-rooted kinship.

He emphasised the mutual benefits of peace and development in southern Thailand and expressed his desire to work closely with Paetongtarn to unlock the full potential of their bilateral relationship.

Anwar also expressed sincere appreciation to Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, for his visionary leadership in strengthening the bonds between the two nations.

Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo wrote on his X account that he believes, under Paetongtarn's capable leadership, Indonesia and Thailand will continue to strengthen their bilateral relations and expand cooperation within ASEAN.

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh sent a letter of congratulations to Paetongtarn on August 18^th.

India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also congratulated Paetongtarn and expressed hope for a further strengthening of the bilateral ties between India and Thailand, which are based on strong foundations of civilizational, cultural and people-to-people connections.

Controversial politician Thammanat dropped from Paetongtarn

Controversial political heavyweight Thammanat Prompao, the acting agriculture minister, will be dropped from the new Cabinet being formed by newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

“They (Pheu Thai) don’t want him,” said Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of Palang Pracharath Party, in an interview with Channel 3.

Prawit confirmed that Palang Pracharath will continue to be in the Pheu Thai-led coalition, dismissing earlier reports that it would be kicked out because of his conflicts with Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai.

Informed sources said the decision to exclude Thammanat was made after Prawit and Thaksin patched up their differences in a phone call.

There were earlier reports that PrawitÂ’s younger brother Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, would be dropped from the new cabinet line-up. Patcharawat is acting minister of natural resources and environment.

Thammanat, 59, was jailed for four years in 1994 for his role in a heroin smuggling case in Australia. Opposition politicians in 2021 tried unsuccessfully to have the Constitutional Court declare the minister unfit for office.

The court said it did not recognize Thammanat's conviction because the verdict was delivered in a foreign country.

Thammanat has consistently denied any involvement in the drug smuggling case. He claimed that he was caught with flour, not heroin.

The decision to drop Thammanat was reported to have been prompted by fears that he could pose a legal trouble for Prime Minister Paetongtarn.

Last week, the Constitutional Court ordered Srettha Thavisin dismissed as prime minister after founding him guilty of a serious breach of professional ethics by appointing Phichit Chuenban, who served as lawyer of the Shinawatra family, a Cabinet member in April this year.

Phichit was jailed for six months back in 2008 for contempt of court in connection with a bribery attempt.

Palang Pracharath was one of the political parties that Paetongtarn vowed during the election campaign last year not to work with because of their association with those behind the military coup in 2014.

As prime minister, she is likely to continue to be questioned for going back on her words.

Prawit, who didnÂ’t attend the special House meeting last Friday to vote on the nomination of Paetongtarn for prime minister, reportedly sent a bouquet of flowers to congratulate her today.

PrawitÂ’s absence from the voting reportedly caused resentment among some Pheu Thai party heavyweights, prompting rumours that the Wongsuwan clan would be excluded from the new cabinet.

Palang Pracharath will submit its list of proposed cabinet members to Prime Minister Paetongtarn tomorrow.

It will include Patcharawat as deputy prime minister and natural resources and environment minister, Santi Promphat as agriculture minister, replacing Thammanat, Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn as deputy agriculture minister and Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, as deputy public health minister.

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Tough screening process ahead of new cabinet formation: Phumthan

The new cabinet is not expected to be sworn for 2-3 weeks, because the secretary general of the cabinet needs time to screen every proposed minister carefully, said Pheu ThaiÂ’s deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai.

All parties are required to submit their lists of proposed ministers by today to Dr Prommin Lertsuridej, who has been assigned to oversee the screening process with the secretary general of the cabinet.

Phumtham declined to comment on caretaker Agriculture minister Thammanat PrompaoÂ’s future, who was reported to have been excluded from the new cabinet, saying that it is an internal affair for the Palang Pracharath party.

Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said today that all coalition parties must accept the qualification standards for cabinet ministers, as set by the Constitutional Court and as manifested in its ruling against former prime minister Srettha Thavisin.

Srettha was ousted from his post after he was found guilty of ethical misconduct by appointing a convict, Phichit Chuenban, as PM Office minister.
Somsak said that the Constitutional CourtÂ’s ruling has set a precedent with which all political parties must comply, adding the tough screening process may affect some candidates, but is unlikely to lead to conflict between parties.

Phai Lik, Palang Pracharath MP for Kamphaeng Phet, said in his Facebook post last night that he and several other MPs will support and follow Thammanat Prompao, secretary-general of the party, after the partyÂ’s leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwan said Monday that Thammanat had been dropped from the list of nominees for cabinet posts.

Prawit said Thammanat will be replaced by Santi Promphat, the deputy leader.

Nonetheless, in the latest report today, ThammanatÂ’s name has been included on the partyÂ’s list of proposed cabinet ministers, after he had a private conversation with party leader, General Prawit.

Other proposed ministers on the list include Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan as a deputy prime minister and minister for natural resources and environment, Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn as deputy agriculture minister and Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn as deputy public health minister.

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No problems with cash distribution via Digital Wallet Scheme

The Budget Bureau would have no objection if the government were to change the disbursement of the 10,000 baht financial benefit under the “digital wallet” scheme from ‘digital money’ to cash, as long as the objective of the scheme is to stimulate the economy and the disbursement begins in September, Chalermphol Pensoot, the bureau’s director, said today.

He noted, however, that the government has not yet decided in what form the benefit will be.

The amount of money needed to fund the scheme was reduced from 500 to 450 billion baht by the Srettha government. This would consist of 165 billion baht from a 2024 fiscal year supplementary budget, 43 billion baht from cuts to several projects and 285 billion baht from the 2025 fiscal budget.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has hinted that digital wallet scheme will have to be reviewed, in line with changes in the economic situation.

Chalermphol said that, since the digital wallet scheme was initiated by the previous government and if the scheme is to be continued by the new administration, it must be approved by the new cabinet.

Govt to use over THB300 billion to stimulate economy

Funds to come from the Additional Budget Expenditure Act, the central budget for emergency expenses and the 2025 budget

The government under new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is preparing to use more than 300 billion baht to stimulate the country’s sluggish economy, a Government House source said on Tuesday.

The budget will come from three main sources:

1. The Additional Budget Expenditure Act for fiscal year 2024, which allocates 122 billion baht to funding the government’s handout under digital wallet scheme. The act has passed Parliament readings and is now waiting to be enacted.
2. The draft of the fiscal 2025 budget, from which the previous government earmarked 152 billion baht for economic stimulation. This portion of the budget was originally reserved for the digital wallet scheme, but could be used to fund other projects if the government decides to adjust the scheme’s scope to use less than the proposed 450 billion baht.
3. The central budget for emergency expenses under the fiscal 2024 budget, which the previous government had earmarked at 40 to 50 billion baht. However, this portion of the budget must be approved and disbursed within September, before the fiscal year ends.

Regarding the rumour that the new PM might consider changing the handout method of the digital wallet scheme to cash, Chalermphol Pensoot, director-general of the Budget Bureau, said on Tuesday that it is possible to do so, adding that changing the disbursement method does not change the original objective of the scheme, which is to stimulate the economy by increasing domestic spending.

Chalermphol added that the preparation of fiscal 2025 budget is currently in the 2nd and 3rd reading phase by the House ad-hoc committee, and should be ready for enactment before October 1, as scheduled.

Even if the formation of a new cabinet is not completed by the end of this month, the draft of the 2025 budget should not be affected, he added.

Paetongtarn said on Tuesday that the Pheu Thai list of Cabinet nominees will not be finalised in the next couple of days, adding that the ministerial quota will be discussed and qualifications carefully reviewed for each candidate before anything is finalised.

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“Digital wallet” benefit may be paid in cash - Phumtham

Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai gave an assurance today that the Pheu Thai party will proceed with the “digital wallet” scheme as promised, but may adjust it by distributing cash, instead of ‘digital money’ through the “Thang Rath” platform.

He also said that the party will not downsize the scheme further, after having reduced its funding from 500 to 450 billion baht, and the objective will remain unchanged, which is to stimulate the sluggish economy.

He said that a clearer picture of the controversial scheme will emerge once the new cabinet is in place and the scheme will have to be discussed among coalition parties and incorporated in the government’s policies.

Meanwhile, Caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said today that the timeline for the scheme remains unchanged, with the distribution of the 10,000 baht benefit to begin in the final quarter of this year.

People’s party MP Sirikanya Tansakul said that that she is not surprised that the 10,000 baht might be in cash, because the caretaker government is required to spend the 122 billion baht budget plus a supplementary budget from the Central Fund by September 30th, which is the end of the 2024 fiscal year.

She said that, if the amount of the funding for the scheme is small, it will have less effect in stimulating the economy adding, however, that she agrees that the economy needs to be stimulated and cannot wait until the first quarter of next near.

Regarding the “Thang Rath” app, which was already been developed and may not be used with the digital wallet scheme, Sirikanya said that the platform can still be used with other transactions and it will not be a waste of investment.

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Pheu Thai MPs mark PM Paetongtarn’s 38th birthday, honour Srettha

https://media.nationthailand.com/upl...anJGCKjjd.webp

Party marks the occasion with a special cake and warm tributes, as well as a standing ovation for the former premier

Pheu Thai’s 141 MPs gathered on Tuesday to celebrate their party leader Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s 38th birthday as well as to thank her predecessor Srettha Thavisin for all his hard work.

The birthday party was held a day in advance at the party’s headquarters on the ninth floor of the Shinawatra 3 Building.

Paetongtarn marked her actual birthday on Wednesday by making merit with her father, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, at Wat Saket.

At the celebration on Tuesday, Paetongtarn and Srettha arrived together at the Pheu Thai head office, where she was presented with a birthday cake by former public health minister and ex-party leader Cholnan Srikaew.

The cake sported a photograph of Paetongtarn taken while she was receiving the royal command for her appointment as Thailand’s 31st prime minister. The message on the cake was “HBD38 & Happy New PM#31”.

The MPs then sang the birthday song for the PM before posing for photos together. They then trooped into the meeting room for the weekly party meeting.

During the meeting, Pheu Thai secretary-general Sorawong Thienthong stood up to say that all party MPs were grateful to Srettha for devoting himself to work for the party for two years – one year campaigning for votes and another year as prime minister.

“I would like to thank Srettha for working for us and for laying a strong foundation for us,” he said, adding that it was now Paetongtarn’s turn to prove herself.

After Sorawong completed his speech, Paetongtarn rose to thank Srettha, saying that though he only debuted in politics two years ago, he had worked hard and devoted himself to the party. She also applauded him for his many achievements.

“I and other Pheu Thai members never imagined that Srettha would have achieved so much and devoted himself to his work so much,” she said as she called for a big applause for the former PM.

In his reply, Srettha said he has always been a man of strong integrity and ethics. He was apparently referring to the charter court verdict, which said he lacked integrity and had flouted the code of ethics by appointing an unqualified person to his Cabinet.

Srettha also promised to attend party meetings in the future and offered to help Pheu Thai MPs who might be in a financial crisis.

He said he would stand behind the scenes and lend support to Paetongtarn, who he described as Pheu Thai’s beloved prime minister and the “bloodline of the party’s spiritual leader”.

Srettha ended his speech by wai-ing and thanking party members, who gave him a standing ovation.

Phumtham tipped for defence in new cabinet

Caretaker Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is likely to take the defence portfolio, replacing Sutin Klungsang in the new cabinet line-up, which could also see two other caretaker ministers from the Pheu Thai party ministers removed, Minister attached to the PM’s Office Jakkapong Sangmanee and Deputy Interior Minister Kriang Kaltinan.

Asked by a reporter this morning at the City Pillar Shrine whether Phumtham will he be nicknamed “Big Ouan” if he becomes Minister of Defence, he laughingly replied that he is already fat, so there is no need to also call him ‘big’.

Phumtham accompanied Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on a visit to the shrine in Bangkok this morning, to pay their respects to Chao Pho Lak Mueang and to seek blessings for their new government, which is in the process of being formed.

The current prospective list of Pheu Thai ministers is:

• Phumtham Wechayachai, deputy prime minister and defence minister.

• Prasert Chantararuangthong, commerce minister.

• Sorawong Thienthong, minister of digital economy and society.

• Chusak Sirinil, PM’s office minister or deputy prime minister.

• Theerarat Samrejvanich, PM’s office minister.

• Suriya Juangroongruangkit, transport minister.

• Surapong Piyachote, deputy transport minister.

• Manaporn Charoensri, deputy transport minister.

• Somsak Thepsuthin, public health minister.

• Pichai Chunhavajira, deputy prime minister and finance minister.

• Paopoom Rojanasakul, deputy finance minister.

• Julapun Amornvivat, deputy finance minister.

• Sermsak Pongpanich, tourism and sports minister

• Ms Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, culture minister.

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PM postpones 5th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok

https://today-obs.line-scdn.net/0hfb...n03Tn4fcg/w644

Prime Minister Paetongthan decided this afternoon to postpone the upcoming BIMSTEC summit, originally scheduled for early next week, according to a high-level government source.

The source, who requested anonymity, stated that this morning, caretaker Foreign Minister Maris Sagiamsongsa met with the Prime Minister, leading to the decision to postpone the 5th Summit of the Bay of Bengal Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, which was set for September 3-4.

Thailand, which currently chairs BIMSTEC, confirmed the meeting as of yesterday. However, due to technical issues in forming the new Cabinet, the summit has to be postponed, according to the source.

BIMSTEC is a regional organization that connects South Asia and Southeast Asia. Established in 1997 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration, it comprises seven members: Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal.

All BIMSTEC leaders had confirmed their participation in the two-day summit, which would have been preceded by meetings of foreign ministers and senior officials.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also planned an official visit to Thailand ahead of the summit on September 3. The main objective of BIMSTEC is to create an enabling environment for rapid economic development.

Furthermore, the bloc aims to foster a spirit of equality and partnership, particularly in trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism, and fisheries.