THAILAND - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has committed to maintaining the policy direction set by her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, with minor adjustments, particularly concerning the digital wallet handout programme. This news comes amidst criticisms and speculations regarding her leadership and cabinet appointments.

 

Spending Thursday at the temporary headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party, Ms. Paetongtarn worked on finalising her inaugural policy statement, set to be announced next week. Her father, ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, made a discreet visit to the building, avoiding the press.

 

Echoing the prior government's initiatives, Ms. Paetongtarn highlighted that most policies would remain unchanged, save for tweaks to the digital wallet scheme. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat disclosed that modifications might include distributing cash instead of digital money to some recipients.

 

Pledging to continue investment and international trade policies, Ms. Paetongtarn assured that the core spirit of the Pheu Thai Party would lead the coalition government despite the leadership change. She also indicated willingness to incorporate suggestions from other coalition partners into the policy framework.

Addressing criticisms about her new cabinet, which includes relatives of veteran politicians, Ms. Paetongtarn took a positive stance, noting that familial ties might provide additional support to her ministers. She called for public patience as she navigates her new role.

 

“Give the prime minister some sympathy. Don’t lodge too many complaints. Sometimes, one should not attach too much importance to minor issues,” she remarked. This response came after Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a regular petitioner, questioned her autonomy and her resignation from multiple directorships before taking office.

 

The public's first glimpse of the new PM in action will be during her policy statement in Parliament next week, with Thursday and Friday set aside for the event, according to Government Chief Whip Wisut Chainarun.

 

Simultaneously, Deputy Interior Minister Sabeeda Thaised dismissed allegations of nepotism following her appointment. She emphasised her readiness to take on the role, succeeding her father, Chada Thaised, who stepped down to avoid ethical scrutiny.

 

Amid the criticisms, Sirikanya Tansakun from the opposition People's Party acknowledged the merit of some ministers, especially PM’s Office Minister Chusak Sirinil, recognising his legal expertise as well-suited for his role.

 

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

 

-- 2024-09-06

 

 

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47 minutes ago, webfact said:

Addressing criticisms about her new cabinet, which includes relatives of veteran politicians

 

With all of these 'children of veteran politicians' in control, one wonders who the kindergarten teacher is.

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Spending Thursday at the temporary headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party, Ms. Paetongtarn worked on finalising her inaugural policy statement, set to be announced next week. Her father, ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, made a discreet visit to the building, avoiding the press.

He should be told to stay far away from politics.

2 hours ago, Tropicalevo said:

 

With all of these 'children of veteran politicians' in control, one wonders who the kindergarten teacher is.

Thaksin.

Not so much PM as Government Spokeswoman.

She looks like one of those realistic robot sex dolls. Only less animated.