Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath party, claimed today that he did not seek any position in Anutin Charnvirakul’s administration in return for his party’s support of Anutin’s nomination as prime minister last week.
He dismissed widespread rumours that he, as former defence minister, was competing with Thammanat Prompao, a Phayao MP and core member of the Kla Tham party, for the defence portfolio.
“I want to clarify that I do not want the post of defence minister. The rumours that I sought the position are groundless,” he said.
His intention is to support the government and the prime minister, so they can focus fully on solving the country’s problems during the four months before the House is dissolved, Prawit, 80, claimed.
His decision was made to enable Anutin to select the most suitable person to address issues along the Thai–Cambodian border and to safeguard the nation, religion and monarchy, he continued, adding that that person chosen should be able to work effectively without concerns about political bargaining and with the interests of the country and the people as the top priority.
“I am happy to provide support from behind the scenes and I am ready to use my knowledge, experience and international security networks wherever they may be of benefit,” he insisted.
