PUBLISHED : 27 Dec 2023 at 04:27
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he hopes to remain in office until he completes his four-year term, insisting the coalition government remains stable.
He added there is no plan to include the opposition Democrat Party in the government coalition yet.
When asked whether the government will be able to complete its four-year term in office, Mr Srettha said the government is working hard and all cabinet ministers are doing their part for the country.
Quizzed about the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle, he said: “The future is uncertain, but as of today, we are quite happy. I believe all ministers are working to the best of their abilities.”
When asked if other parties will be invited to join the coalition government, the prime minister said he hasn’t thought about it yet.
“We are getting along well. When any problems arise, we will discuss them straightforwardly.
“I am happy with the 314 House seats [held by the government coalition]. That’s enough to run the country smoothly. There may be a difference of opinion among ministers, but we can talk it through as grown-ups do,” he said.
Asked about whether it would be best if the Democrat Party joins the coalition, Mr Srettha said, “In terms of numbers, that may look better. But that also means cabinet seats will have to be reallocated and things will become more difficult.”
Mr Srettha also dismissed claims that he remains under the shadow of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party.
“I am the prime minister and I am trying to complete my four-year term. Most importantly, during my four-year tenure, I need to be sure the livelihoods of the people will improve,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul echoed the view, saying the coalition government has the backing of 314 MPs in the House to push for bills that will benefit the country. Mr Anutin, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, said that as long as the government acts in the country’s best interests, it will always have the backing of the coalition parties.
“But if the government fails to do so, coalition parties will not support even if it commands all 500 House seats,” Mr Anutin said.