Thailand’s acting prime minister is poised to lead the nation for just one full day on Wednesday, stepping in for the suspended premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before facing his replacement in an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.
Transport Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit commenced his official activities by participating in a ceremony in Bangkok that honoured the enduring legacy of the Prime Minister’s Office.
The occasion commemorated the 93rd anniversary of an institution that Suriya is poised to lead for significantly less than 93 hours, as Thailand grapples with the suspension of Paetongtarn, the heir to the nation’s leading political dynasty.
In a short ceremony attended by the media, Suriya chose not to answer questions regarding his fleeting leadership, which marks the conclusion of a lengthy political career spanning several decades.
He stated that his primary focus had been to “sign a paper” that would facilitate a seamless transition to his successor on Thursday.
On Tuesday, the Constitutional Court announced that there is “sufficient cause to suspect” Paetongtarn of breaching ministerial ethics amid a diplomatic dispute with Cambodia. As a result, her suspension is in effect while an investigation, which could extend for several months, is conducted.
– “I am unfamiliar with the individual,” –
At 38 years old, Paetongtarn is the offspring of influential political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, whose family and political party have been in contention with Thailand’s conservative establishment since the early 2000s.
Power has swiftly transitioned to 70-year-old Suriya, a seasoned operator known in Thai media for his ability to gauge political currents, consistently aligning himself with the prevailing government.
“I don’t really know the guy, but I don’t care anymore who becomes prime minister,” said Paitoon Kaewdee, a 54-year-old motorbike taxi driver, in an interview with AFP.
There is a growing sense of disillusionment regarding the state of Thai politics. Once deeply invested in the political landscape and the Shinawatra family, my interest has waned, leaving me with the impression that everything remains unchanged.
Suriya’s tenure as acting premier is set to conclude, with a cabinet reshuffle planned before Tuesday’s unexpected court developments.
An oath-swearing ceremony is set for Thursday, marking the transition as the incoming interior minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, prepares to take over the role.
Late Tuesday, the ruling Pheu Thai party announced that Phumtham is set to assume a prominent role following the cabinet reshuffle, as he will be awarded the title of deputy prime minister, placing him higher in the order of succession than Suriya.
According to Gareth Leather, a senior Asia economist at Capital Economics, the ongoing “power vacuum at the top” could jeopardise Thailand’s efforts to secure a trade deal with the United States, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s warning of a potential 36 percent tariff.
“I want a new election,” expressed 40-year-old Bangkok office worker Chatchai Summabut. “Stability is essential for the future of this country.”
– Diminishing impact –
Paetongtarn, who assumed the role of prime minister just last August, has taken on the position of culture minister in the newly formed cabinet before her suspension, ensuring her continued presence in the upper echelons of power.
Suriya, Phumtham, and another member are part of the Pheu Thai party, which finished in second place during the 2023 election. Despite this, they managed to gain power by establishing a fragile coalition with former adversaries from pro-military factions.
Analysts suggest that Paetongtarn’s withdrawal from office signifies a significant decline in the influence of the Shinawatras, even though the acting prime ministers are still viewed as their devoted supporters.
On Tuesday, the second day of Thaksin’s criminal trial for royal defamation took place, with the former leader facing a potential 15-year sentence if found guilty.
Paetongtarn has faced significant challenges due to a protracted territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. This tension escalated in May, resulting in cross-border clashes that claimed the life of a Cambodian soldier.
A leaked recording reveals that during a diplomatic call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, she referred to him as “uncle” while labelling a Thai military commander as her “opponent”, prompting significant backlash.
A conservative party has withdrawn from her ruling coalition, leading to a significant cabinet reshuffle. This political shift comes as her approval rating has taken a nosedive, coinciding with thousands gathering to protest over the weekend.
Conservative lawmakers have levelled accusations against her, claiming she is yielding to Cambodia and compromising military integrity. They have initiated a case with the Constitutional Court, alleging a violation of the constitution’s ministerial ethics code.
