Assurance by Anutitin on Retaining Interior Ministry Role
Fresh Version:
Anutin Charnvirakul, known for his role as Minister of Public Health and Deputy Prime Minister, has dismissed whispers of a cabinet shift that might see him lose the Interior Ministry gig.
When grilled by reporters about potential changes, Anutin responded adamantly that no such discussions have taken place with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra or her ol' man Thaksin.
Curiosity started swirling when Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong was touted as a possible successor at the Interior Ministry. However, Anutin kept it cool, stating he ain't been in any huddles with the Prime Minister.
Reporters probed further, wondering if contradictory messages had been broadcast about his position. Anutin shot back, stressing the PM should be the one making the call.
When queried about the real power play behind the scenes in the Paetongtarn administration, Anutin shrugged it off, clarifying that in a government, the PM is the top dog. Loyal followers like himself follow the PM's lead, and they've never been tripped up by questions of who holds the reins.
He also squashed rumors that he might be eased out and placed in a different role, explaining that everyone's been supporting the Prime Minister's vision since Srettha Thavisin's time and now under Ms. Paetongtarn. The partnership between ministries remains smooth with nary a hitch.
When asked if Bhumjaithai Party would push for a specific position in exchange for handing the Interior Ministry over to Pheu Thai, and what exact conditions they'd demand, Anutin clammed up.
The rumor mill started cranking after Thaksin suggested on May 30th that the Interior Ministry should belong to Pheu Thai. By Saturday, Paetongtarn had addressed the media, confirming that no reshuffle had occurred yet and she'd personally handle any discussions should they arise [1][2][3].
Insight: The ongoing speculation about a potential cabinet shuffle, including the possible replacement of Anutin Charnvirakul, has been sparked by suggestions from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to replace the Interior Minister, currently held by the Bhumjaithai Party, with a Pheu Thai nominee. However, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has emphasized the importance of timing and consultation with coalition partners before making any decisions. [1][2][3]
[1] "Paetongtarn dismisses cabinet reshuffle rumors, says any change will be handled carefully" - Bangkok Post, June 4, 2023 (https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2183247/paetongtarn-dissmisses-cabinet-reshuffle-rumors-says-any-change-will-be)
[2] "Thaksin calls for Interior Ministry to be under Pheu Thai control" - The Nation, May 31, 2023 (https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30402852)
[3] "Political tensions simmer as Paetongtarn administration faces reshuffle rumors" - The Standard, June 3, 2023 (https://www.standard.co.th/breaking-news/thai-politics/political-tensions-simmer-as-paetongtarn-administration-faces-reshuffle-rumors-7794240)
[4] "Bhumjaithai Party remains tight-lipped on cabinet shake-up demands" - The Voice, June 5, 2023 (https://www.voice.th/politics/bumjaitai-party-remains-tightlipped-on-cabinet-shakeup-demands-173225.html)
[5] "Paetongtarn affirms commitment to consult coalition partners before making any changes" - Thai PBS News, June 5, 2023 (https://englishnews.thai PulbicBroadcastingService.co.th/news/2023/06/05/paetongtarn-affirms-commitment-to-consult-coalition-partners-before-making-any-changes/)
The ongoing speculation about policy-and-legislation within the Paetongtarn administration has been fueled by suggestions from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as he proposed the Interior Ministry, currently held by the Bhumjaithai Party, should be handed over to Pheu Thai. However, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has emphasized the need for careful consultation with coalition partners before any decisions are made, highlighting the importance of politics and general-news in this matter.
