Srettha dismisses ‘backup PM’ rumours amid court ruling concerns

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin dismissed rumours suggesting a “backup prime minister” is being considered to replace him. Speculation arose due to concerns about his potential removal over the appointment of ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office Minister in the latest Cabinet reshuffle.

The Thai premier assured the public of his commitment to his role.

“I am still the prime minister and am working to the best of my ability.”

The Bangkok-born PM expressed readiness to accept the Constitutional Court’s ruling on his case, which is expected to be delivered in a few days.

“I already sent a closing statement to the court. I don’t want to comment any further.”

Rumours also circulated about the Palang Pracharath Party being expelled from the coalition government, which Srettha downplayed.

“We should focus on working to solve the country’s problems.”

Former senator Wanchai Sornsiri speculated that Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, could replace the Thai PM if he is removed from office. He dismissed the likelihood of Bhumjaithai Party leader and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul succeeding PM Srettha, citing the party’s smaller representation of 70 MPs.

“Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, will not allow Anutin to become the next prime minister.”

In a related development, Nakharin Mektrairat, president of the Constitutional Court, declared the court’s premises a controlled area on the days when key rulings are expected. No one will be allowed to enter without permission.

On the first of these dates, the Constitutional Court will decide whether to dissolve the main opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) for allegedly violating Section 92 of the organic law on political parties.

This petition, filed in March by the Election Commission (EC), cites a ruling from January that the MFP’s efforts to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code showed an intention to undermine the constitutional monarchy.

The Constitutional Court will also rule on PM Srettha’s case shortly after. A group of 40 former senators petitioned for his dismissal, arguing that Pichit was unsuitable for a Cabinet post due to his past conviction.

Pichit served jail time in 2008 for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials in a controversial land case involving Thaksin, reported Bangkok Post.