Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrived at the Ministry of Culture on July 4, greeting staff before taking over from outgoing minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol.
Paetongtarn had reshuffled the cabinet and appointed herself culture minister just before the Constitutional Court suspended her as prime minister on 1/7. The court's decision was based on an investigation into a phone call she had with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new cabinet, including Paetongtarn, took place yesterday at Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Bangkok, witnessed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida.
Paetongtarn later attended a special cabinet meeting at Government House but did not enter the prime minister's office due to her suspension. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is serving as acting prime minister.
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Paetongtarn Shinawatra leaves the swearing-in ceremony for Thailand's new cabinet on 3/7. Photo: AFP |
Paetongtarn Shinawatra leaves the swearing-in ceremony for Thailand's new cabinet on 3/7. Photo: AFP
In her first address as culture minister, Paetongtarn expressed satisfaction at the opportunity to continue serving the country, despite stepping back from the role of prime minister. She pledged to work closely with all stakeholders to advance Thailand's cultural sector.
She emphasized her vision for the Ministry of Culture to become a key force in national development, similar to how South Korea's Ministry of Culture has shaped its soft power.
Paetongtarn added that as a leader in the Pheu Thai Party, she had discussed with the South Korean ambassador her desire to make culture a leading economic sector, generating new income through "soft power" policies.
"I want the Ministry of Culture to promote new opportunities and careers for Thai people," she said.
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Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at the Ministry of Culture on 4/7. Photo: NationThailand |
Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at the Ministry of Culture on 4/7. Photo: NationThailand
The Constitutional Court on 1/7 said it is reviewing a complaint from 36 senators seeking to remove Paetongtarn from her position as culture minister. They argue she is ineligible to hold any cabinet position while suspended as prime minister, as the call with Hun Sen could be considered a breach of ethical standards for ministers.
Thanh Danh (Bangkok Post, NationThailand)
