Vacancy arises in the defense ministry following government reorganization
In a recent cabinet reshuffle, the position of Defense Minister in Thailand has remained vacant, sparking speculation that it is being reserved for Gen Chalermpol Srisawat, a former senator and chief of defense forces.
The vacancy in the Defense Ministry is seen as strategic, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra neither confirming nor denying speculation about Gen Chalermpol's potential appointment. This cautious approach could be an attempt to avoid provoking negative reactions from the armed forces amid ongoing border disputes with Cambodia.
Gen Chalermpol, with his military background and extensive experience, is considered a strong candidate for the role. A source familiar with the matter has confirmed the speculation about Gen Chalermpol's potential appointment.
However, for the time being, Deputy Defense Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit is serving as acting defense minister. Prime Minister Paetongtarn has insisted that the Defense Ministry will continue as usual under Gen Nattaphon's leadership. Mr Phumtham Wechayachai, the current Interior Minister, praised Gen Nattaphon's broad expertise and strong coordination skills.
Prior to the cabinet reshuffle, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a former prime minister, spoke before being suspended by the Constitutional Court. Mr Phumtham, the former Defense Minister, has since taken on the role of Interior Minister.
The Thai cabinet shake-up was announced in the Royal Gazette. The exact reasons for Paetongtarn's decision to leave the Defense Minister position vacant remain unclear, with both the prime minister and Mr Phumtham claiming to have no idea why it was left vacant. Ms Paetongtarn has also declined to comment on whether she deliberately left the position vacant.
Despite the uncertainty, Gen Chalermpol's qualifications as a former chief of defense forces and senator make him a prominent military figure, positioning him as a suitable and likely candidate for the role. The wait for his potential appointment continues, with the Defense Minister position remaining vacant until further notice.
The vacancy in the Defense Ministry, a significant aspect of policy-and-legislation, is fueling politics as the general public anticipates the potential appointment of Gen Chalermpol Srisawat. Given his military background and extensive experience, Gen Chalermpol's qualifications position him as a likely candidate, given the strategic importance of the role amid ongoing border disputes.
