No Imminent Thai Cabinet Reshuffling, Says Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham

No Imminent Cabinet Shuffle, Says Deputy PM

It seems there's no impending move for a cabinet reshuffle with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra still in charge, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The Pheu Thai Party heavyweight mentioned that he hasn't caught any complaints about the existing personnel from Prime Minister Paetongtarn herself.

The speculation revolved around a potential reshuffle where Mr. Phumtham would return to his previous role as the commerce minister, a position he held under the Srettha Thavisin administration. Some folks from the Srettha government, such as Sutin Klungsang, who previously served as defense minister, might also make a comeback in the upcoming shake-up.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Phumtham was open about his willingness to serve wherever needed but stressed that any talk about a reshuffle is just speculative at this stage.

Apparently, Prime Minister Paetongtarn has repeatedly highlighted the importance of maintaining unity within the ministries and isn't keen on seeing turmoil among her cabinet members. In her words, "I've not heard from the prime minister [regarding her] wishes to have a shakeup."

Mr. Phumtham is reportedly a regular listener to concerns and issues regarding the Pheu Thai Party, including the ever-dropping agricultural goods pricing that has left some MPs disgruntled, prompting whispers about Mr. Phumtham potentially replacing the incumbent commerce minister, Pichai Naripthaphan.

However, Mr. Phumtham downplayed these sentiments, stating that they shouldn't necessarily lead to change. "We can't please everyone and nor should we," he said. "It's not realistic to manage feelings."

There was a fleeting mention of an "old idea" suggesting a cabinet reshuffle should occur post the upcoming budget expenditure bill's approval. The government has requested a special meeting for May 28-30 to discuss the 3.78-trillion-baht expenditure bill for the next fiscal year.

Despite this suggestion, Mr. Phumtham clarified that there has been no new idea sailing about with regards to a cabinet reshuffle. Furthermore, the government, as of now, continues to enjoy majority support in parliament. So, it's business as usual for now!

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, despite speculation, indicated that a cabinet reshuffle isn't necessarily imminent, as he hasn't received any indication from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
While there have been whispers about a possible change in personnel, Phumtham emphasized his willingness to serve wherever required, but stressed that any potential reshuffle remains speculative.
In a conversation with reporters, Phumtham also addressed concerns about the agricultural goods pricing, stating that while he listens to issues within the Pheu Thai Party, any potential change shouldn't be driven solely by such sentiments.
Furthermore, despite an old idea suggesting a post-budget approval cabinet reshuffle, Phumtham clarified that no new concept regarding a reshuffle has emerged, and the government, for now, continues to have majority support in parliament, keeping the focus on policy-and-legislation, general news, and politics as usual.