Bangkok: "Chulaphan" is confident that the cabinet list includes all the necessary qualifications, but remains tight-lipped about whether or not reserve names will be nominated. "Chulaphan" affirms that the allocation of cabinet positions is finalized and that the Pheu Thai party is unaffected, despite rumors of dissatisfaction among MPs who did not receive positions. He is confident that all cabinet members meet the required qualifications and remains tight-lipped about whether a reserve list will be submitted.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, a party-list MP and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, addressed rumors that some Pheu Thai MPs were dissatisfied with the cabinet lineup, or "Anutin 2 Cabinet," stating that there was no such thing and that it was merely speculation from outside. He explained that the government formation process requires negotiation and the selection of individuals who can effectively work in their assigned ministries. After evaluating their qualifications, suitability, and ability to drive the ministries and policies, the final selection process begins. He acknowledged that while there are few positions available, not everyone will receive a position, and everyone understands this. Currently, there is no internal unrest or instability within the party; everyone remains united and harmonious.
Before reiterating, it's important to note that this is speculation from outsiders who might be dissatisfied. However, the reality is that everyone within the party has met in full force, and everyone is ready to move the party forward, advance its policies, and contribute to the government. I want to emphasize again that everyone is united.
He confirmed that no one in the party has not been given an opportunity, as their roles and responsibilities as representatives of the people and in other areas of work still exist, both in political positions and in the House of Representatives. Everyone is ready to move forward with the party. As for whether some people might be resentful and leave the party, Mr. Julaphan firmly stated, "No."
During every personnel reshuffle, not just this time, before making final decisions or selecting personnel, there are always discussions and consultations, and everyone is ready to work. Many people in the Pheu Thai party have experience and knowledge; many are well-prepared. But ultimately, a decision must be made, and once it's made, everyone is ready to move forward. Consultations and discussions are always normal and not unusual.
Regarding the leaked list of names, many believe that the Pheu Thai Party also has its own "prot©g©s." Mr. Julapan stated that the process is not yet complete and he would not comment on the names. He explained that the Pheu Thai Party has completed its part in submitting the list to the Prime Minister, but the appointment of the cabinet is entirely within the Prime Minister's authority and requires royal approval. Therefore, at this point, he would not comment on the leaked names and could not confirm their accuracy.
When asked whether the list of ministers in question had already been returned to the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Chulaphan confirmed that it had not yet been sent. He understood that the process had just begun, and it was the responsibility of the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary. He said that all he could do now was wait for confirmation that the names had been submitted to the Prime Minister.
Regarding the qualifications verification process, it is a mechanism that the Cabinet Secretary must implement. We are confident that our personnel are capable of performing the job and that the list is acceptable to the Prime Minister for various positions. We must ensure that those who are here have gone through multiple screening processes; they didn't reach this point without doing anything. Those applying for membership in the House of Representatives have previously served as ministers and have passed several qualification screenings. Therefore, we are confident in their qualifications.
When asked whether the scrutiny of ministerial qualifications this time seemed more rigorous than ever before and whether a reserve list would be necessary, Mr. Chulaphan said that he could not comment on that at this time, as the process had already been completed.