Outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha chaired his final cabinet meeting on Tuesday, saying he was satisfied with his government’s performance over the past four years.
After the meeting, Gen Prayut had a photo taken with outgoing cabinet ministers, Government House officials, and workers. They then had lunch together.
When asked by reporters what he wanted the incoming government to do, he replied: “It should be left to the new government to do what it sees fit.”
Asked what he plans to do after leaving office, Gen Prayut said he wants to rest and spend more time with his family.
“I will become an ordinary citizen without special privileges,” Gen Prayut said.
Quizzed about what he was most impressed by over the past four years, he said that all cabinet members had worked together well, and they spoke with reason.
“We developed a close bond and did not seek any personal benefit, which moved everything forward,” Gen Prayut said.
Asked about the atmosphere during the outgoing cabinet’s last meeting, outgoing deputy prime minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said it was fun-filled with many photos taken.
He said Gen Prayut and the other ministers did not say anything profound or special.
Mr Wissanu said the new cabinet ministers were all capable people.
“I believe and trust in the leadership of the new prime minister and that he will be able to do his job and do it right,” he said.
“From the beginning, [Srettha Thavisin] had the idea of ending political polarisation and stepping away from conflict.”
He then offered some advice: “Diligence, honesty, patience, prudence, and transparency are the duties of the cabinet. Everything will run smoothly if these are followed.”
Rachada Dhnadirek, a deputy government spokeswoman, said Gen Prayut expressed his appreciation to the cabinet ministers and government officials for their hard work for the nation over the past four years.
In a parting message to the nation posted on his Facebook on Saturday, Gen Prayut described his nine years at the country’s helm as the most meaningful and memorable period of his life.
As prime minister, he said he spent his time protecting the country, which he said has grown leaps and bounds and is now on par with many other nations.