He will replace Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, who held the position for just one day.
Phumtham’s assumption of the role hinges on his formal swearing-in as interior minister, scheduled for Thursday, following a royal decree approving a cabinet reshuffle. His promotion is widely seen as a strategic move by the ruling coalition to ensure leadership continuity and demonstrate stability amid growing political pressure.
Phumtham’s new role as interior minister in the ministerial shake-up places him higher in the cabinet hierarchy than Suriya, as outlined by Thailand’s constitutional line of succession, which prioritises ministers based on the seniority of their portfolios.
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Thai court suspends PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra over leaked phone call
Thai court suspends PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra over leaked phone call
While the Constitutional Court has yet to decide on Paetongtarn’s potential removal, the scandal has dealt a serious blow to Pheu Thai’s hold on power. The Bhumjaithai Party withdrew from the coalition on June 18, prompting the resignation of eight ministers and leaving the government with a slim majority. The opposition has seized on the turmoil to question the administration’s legitimacy and leadership.
