18-7-2023 (BANGKOK) The Pheu Thai Party has announced its intention to nominate Srettha Thavisin for the position of prime minister if Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s nomination is rejected by the joint parliamentary session on Wednesday. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a senior party adviser and daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, confirmed the party’s decision.
Ms. Paetongtarn stated that Pheu Thai would fully support Mr. Pita as prime minister before nominating Mr. Srettha. Only if Mr. Pita’s nomination is rejected by the parliament will Pheu Thai proceed with nominating Mr. Srettha.
During the previous joint sitting of the House and the Senate on July 13, Mr. Pita failed to secure the necessary majority vote. However, the eight coalition allies decided on Monday to renominate Mr. Pita for the parliamentary session on Wednesday, although a prominent figure within Pheu Thai expressed that the renomination cannot continue indefinitely.
Ms. Paetongtarn highlighted Mr. Srettha’s expertise in business and economics as the reason for her support. Mr. Srettha, a former president of the Sansiri real estate empire, possesses valuable knowledge that can contribute to the development of the nation and attract international investors, she said.
Regarding a senator’s promise to support Pheu Thai if they exclude the Move Forward Party (MFP) from their coalition, Ms. Paetongtarn stated that the eight coalition parties would discuss the matter, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issue.
When questioned about her potential role in the new government, Ms. Paetongtarn stated that she had not yet considered whether she would hold a ministerial portfolio.
