PM Paetongtarn rules out Cabinet reshuffle after no-confidence win
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that a Cabinet reshuffle is not imminent after surviving a no-confidence motion. Yesterday, March 26, she received substantial backing from Parliamentarians, with the vote totaling 319 to 162, with seven abstentions.
After the vote, the Thai premier confirmed no immediate plans to alter the Cabinet. When questioned about whether her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, would influence Cabinet decisions through coalition parties, she expressed her willingness to consider opinions.
Prior to the censure debate, the 38 year old Pheu Thai leader assured Thaksin that a Cabinet reshuffle was not forthcoming, to which he replied, “That’s okay.”
She emphasised the smooth operation of the coalition government and mentioned that further documents would be shared on social media to clarify information presented during the debate.
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the opposition People’s Party, indicated that evidence from the debate would be submitted to independent bodies like the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for investigation.
“We hope that after the opposition presented this information, the prime minister’s family will pay their taxes properly.”
The debate on Monday and Tuesday was initiated by Natthaphong, who accused the prime minister of inadequate governance, tax evasion, and allowing her father to wield political influence. Although Thaksin’s name was agreed to be omitted, frequent mentions of “a family member” and “an outsider” were made.
Opposition members criticised the government for not tackling vital issues like high electricity costs and low agricultural prices and for persisting with a costly cash handout initiative despite concerns about its economic impact. They also pointed out instances where the PM reportedly gave irrelevant or inaccurate responses to inquiries, such as her assertion that a strong baht would benefit Thai exports, and accused her of dodging critical economic questions.
Further allegations were made that the coalition government was unlawfully influenced, and it was questioned whether Paetongtarn had misled the public regarding her father’s health.
Thaksin, declared critically ill, was permitted to stay in a private ward at Police General Hospital instead of serving his sentence in prison.
Concerns were also raised about the family’s ownership of properties, including the Alpine golf resort in Pathum Thani and a luxury resort at Khao Yai, reported Bangkok Post.
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