Thailand: PM confirms Democrat cabinet deal

• According to deputy leader of the Democrat Party, Nipon Boonyamanee, the Democrats have received confirmation from Gen. Prayut that they will get the eight cabinet posts they asked for.
• However, it remains unclear whether Gen Prayut will concurrently serve as defence minister, as reported by the media.
• Mr Nipon said Gen Prayut called him on 11 Jun 19, after he was appointed PM, to confirm that the Democrats will be allocated eight cabinet posts, as agreed upon.
• Mr Nipon also said that the next step for the Democrat Party will be for MPs and executives to decide who will take the ministerial posts.
• However, he confirmed that Democrat leader Jurin Laksanavisit will become deputy prime minister and commerce minister.
• Other Democrats tipped to take ministerial posts include secretary-general Chalermchai Sri-on who will likely take the helm at the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry; Juti Krairiksh who is expected to be in charge of the Social Development and Human Security Ministry, and Thaworn Senneam who is tipped to take the deputy transport portfolio.
• Meanwhile, a Bhumjaithai Party source said that they have decided on the list of people suited to take ministerial posts, and will send the list to Gen Prayut by 16 Jun 19.

External Link: https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1693940/pm-confirms-democrat-cabinet-deal