Thailand's New Coalition Cabinet: A Power Play By Pheu Thai

Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn has endorsed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s new 36-member cabinet. This includes 12 new faces and retains a dominant presence of the Pheu Thai Party. Notable positions were filled by key figures, with policy proposals expected to be presented soon. Unity is anticipated among coalition partners.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has given his endorsement to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's new cabinet, as revealed in the Royal Gazette on Wednesday. The 36-member coalition government features 12 new faces in key positions.

Paetongtarn, who recently became Thailand's youngest premier at 38, kicked off her term with significant appointments. The Pheu Thai Party holds a dominant presence in the new cabinet, retaining critical roles for Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will now handle the defense portfolio, with Pichai Naripthaphan stepping in as commerce minister.

The Pheu Thai Party has secured 17 of the cabinet positions, leaving 19 for coalition partners. The new cabinet aims to present its policy proposal to parliament soon, including a notable adjustment to the Pheu Thai's 10,000 baht transfer policy. Notably, Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, continuing the family's political legacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)