PM Paetongtarn Takes Culture Role Amid Court Concerns

BANGKOK, June 30 (TNA) – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has confirmed she will also serve as Culture Minister, aiming to bolster Thailand’s soft power initiatives, a move coming amidst a broader cabinet reshuffle and mounting political pressures.

Paetongtarn emphasized the Culture Ministry’s vital role in promoting Thai culture and exporting soft power. When asked if her dual role stemmed from court worries, she denied it, stating the focus was solely on soft power development.

The ongoing cabinet reshuffle, initiated after the Bhumjaithai Party’s withdrawal from the coalition, has seen several ministerial changes. The Prime Minister submitted the new cabinet list for royal endorsement on June 27.

The Prime Minister admitted concern over a potential Constitutional Court ruling that could suspend her duties, stressing her desire to avoid work disruptions.

The Constitutional Court on July 1 is scheduled to consider a petition by 36 senators seeking Paetongtarn’s removal from office. The petition alleges she violated ethical standards following a leaked audio clip of her conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. The court could accept the case and issue an interim order suspending her duties pending a final ruling.

Addressing recent poll dips, Paetongtarn stated all feedback is valuable: positive results encourage, while negative ones prompt self-improvement, clearer communication, and harder work.

On the June 28 protests, she reiterated that demonstrations are a right if they remain peaceful and lawful. She concluded by stressing her unwavering focus on completing urgent tasks, as “the issues at hand cannot wait.” -819 (TNA)