Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has dismissed speculation of an imminent cabinet reshuffle, saying that he has not thought about I, and asked the media to stop reporting on this issue, which he likened to a soap opera.
He told the media today that he had been monitoring their reports about the political situation and possible cabinet shakeup, adding that he has distanced himself from party politics.
He insisted that changing cabinet ministers is his exclusive authority. “I know when and how, but not at this moment,” he said, adding that he has many other things to do.
“Do not ask me when I will change the Cabinet. I will tell you myself when there is to be a reshuffle. Or I may not tell you, as I may go ahead and do it myself, because it is at the sole decision of the Prime Minister,” he said, adding that there is already a quota system for the coalition parties.
The Prime Minister went on to say he is satisfied with the Government’s performance over the past year, pointing out several projects which have been implemented and some problems, related to state enterprises, which are now being fixed.
Asked about the prospect that Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan may head the ruling Palang Pracharat party, he retorted “Why not? If he accepts the position, it is his own business,” adding that he still has to work with General Prawit,even if he is named the new leader.
The Prime Minister also brushed aside speculation that three economic ministers, closely associated with Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak, may quit, saying that he had instructed them to do their jobs the best they can.
Those three ministers are Finance Minister Uttama Savanayana, Energy Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong and Minister of University, Science, Research and Innovations Suwit Mesinsee.
