Paetongtarn cabinet gets 322 votes following Democrat alliance

Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime minister's secretary-general, who plays a key role in the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. (Photo: Pattarapong​ Chatpattarasill​)
Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime leader’s secretary-general, who plays a vital role in the formation of a fresh government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. ( Photo: Pattarapong ​ Chatpattarasill​ )

After the previous opposition party joined forces with perfect secretary Paetongtarn Shinawatra and received two significant government positions in exchange for their contentious determination, the new government has 322 supporters in the 500-seat Parliament.

Prommin Lertsuridej, the Prime Minister’s secretary-general, announced on Friday that the cabinet’s support had comfortably increased to 322 votes, following the Democrats ‘ participation.

Among the MPs who back the coalition government are:

  • Pheu Thai: 141
  • Bhumjaithai: 70
  • United Thai Nation: 36
  • Democrat: 25
  • Chartthaipattana: 10
  • Prachachart: 9
  • Chart Pattana: 3
  • Faction of Capt Thamanat Prompow ( from Palang Pracharath ): 21

The Democrat Party’s backing has strengthened the government, despite strong opposition from veteran politicians and party loyalists, including former leaders Chuan Leekpai, Banyat Bantadtan and Jurin Laksanawisit, who oppose any political alliance with Pheu Thai.

Key Democrat leaders announced on Thursday night that they would nominate their party’s leader Chalermchai Sri-on for the positions of natural resources and environment minister and Dej-id Kaothong for the position of deputy public health minister.

Pheu Thai has been informed of this decision by the Democrat Party.

Before submitting the approved list for royal endorsement, Dr. Prommin stated that Pheu Thai is still checking the credentials and backgrounds of the proposed cabinet ministers.

Srettha Thavisin, then prime minister, was found guilty of a flagrant ethical misconduct by appointing former convict Pichit Chuenban as cabinet minister on August 14th, according to the Constitutional Court. The ruling resulted in Mr Srettha being&nbsp, dismissed&nbsp, after less than a year in office.