Srettha scoffs at ‘triple PM’ scenario
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has shrugged off concerns of a possible “triple prime ministers” situation, insisting that he is the country’s one and only prime minister despite the prevailing public opinion.
Mr Srettha said on Monday (Feb 26) that while he does not have the power to change people’s opinions, he was confident it wouldn’t have any impact on his ability to perform as the head of government and meet his responsibilities as prime minister.
Since former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was released on parole two weeks ago, observers have been saying that he would soon return to politics and exert his influence, resulting in a situation that they are calling a “dual prime minister” situation.
With Thaksin’s youngest daughter Paetongtarn herself holding prominent positions within the Pheu Thai Party, which Thaksin is widely considered the de facto leader of, some pundits are warning the situation might further devolve into a “triple prime minister” scenario, with Ms Paetongtarn playing the role of a backroom premier.
“The ‘double’ or ‘triple prime minister’ phenomenon is just a phrase. Everyone wants the country to move forward regardless of their political affiliations,” the PM said.
Mr Srettha said that he is open to any advice from former prime ministers, including Thaksin, but that he himself would decide if their advice is actually practical.
He said he did not mind if his Cabinet ministers paid Thaksin a visit because they had known each other for a long time.
When asked if he and Thaksin discussed a Cabinet reshuffle during their private meeting last Saturday (Feb 24), he chose to sidestep the question.
“When the time comes, you’ll know. And I’ll be the one to forward the matter [reshuffle] for royal approval,” he said.
The PM’s comments came after the deputy chief of the Probation Department confirmed last Friday that Thaksin is allowed to take positions in politics and offer advice during his parole period.
Pol Col Montri Boonyayothin said the department does not prohibit Thaksin from taking on roles such as a board member or a political advisor of an organisation, which aligns with the department’s policy to encourage former inmates to reintegrate into society.
However, Thaksin must meet the qualifications set by any organisation intending to appoint him, the official said.
Meanwhile, Ms Paetongtarn said her father’s mental and physical health has improved since he was released from the hospital.
He would be glad to receive visitors, especially from his long-time supporters, when he is ready, she said, while brushing off questions about the double prime minister scenario.
When prodded about it, she let out a big sigh and said: “Why don’t we drop this issue and let Mr Srettha work in peace?”