15-8-2024 (BANGKOK) In a swift response to the unexpected ousting of Srettha Thavisin, Pheu Thai Party Members of Parliament have unanimously voted to nominate party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thailand’s next Prime Minister. This decisive move, announced on Thursday morning, marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Sorawong Thienthong, the party’s secretary-general, revealed that the voting took place following a brief parliamentary meeting held just after 10 am. The MPs’ decision will now be forwarded to the party’s executive board for final approval, as they seek to fill the void left by Srettha’s removal on Wednesday.
Paetongtarn, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was originally listed as the party’s second prime ministerial candidate, following Srettha. The third candidate on the list is Chaikasem Nitisiri, though his potential nomination has raised concerns about possible legal complications.
The sudden leadership vacuum emerged when the Constitutional Court found Srettha guilty of violating ethical standards. The court’s decision stemmed from Srettha’s appointment of Pichit Chuenban as Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, despite Pichit’s previous six-month imprisonment for contempt of court related to an alleged attempt to bribe Supreme Court officials.
Addressing concerns about the selection process, Sorawong assured reporters that the party’s executive board would carefully consider the qualifications of all potential nominees before making their final decision later on Thursday. He also touched upon the delicate issue of coalition politics, stating that Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party – Pheu Thai’s main coalition partner – had pledged support for Pheu Thai in this second attempt to form a government.
The rapid developments have set the stage for a crucial vote in parliament, with Pheu Thai party-list MP Wisut Chainarun confidently asserting that a new prime minister will be elected at 10 am on Friday.
