Thailand’s new prime minister and cabinet took oath

Last Updated on September 7, 2024 9:10 am

Petangtarn Shinawatra sworn in as Prime Minister of Thailand. Besides, 35 ministers of the new government also took oath.

According to the news agency Reuters, on Friday (September 6), the Prime Minister and Ministers were sworn in by King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand. It resulted in the swearing in of a new government in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy after prolonged political turmoil.

Petangtarn, 38, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai party, was elected by parliament last month to become Thailand’s youngest prime minister. He took over after his predecessor, Shretha Thavisin, was sacked for ethics violations in a court ruling.

The 17 members of the cabinet officially approved by the king on Wednesday are members of the Pheu Thai party. This includes the Prime Minister. The remaining 19 positions are shared among alliance partners.

Dressed in formal attire, Petangtarn and his cabinet members took the oath before King Vajiralongkorn and Queen Sutida at the Royal Palace in Bangkok.

After reciting the oath, the king said to the cabinet, according to the oath you have taken for the welfare of the country and the people, you will be encouraged to fulfill your responsibilities and work with determination.

After the king’s speech, the Paitangtarn and the ministers bowed humbly.

Petangtarn, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has not previously served in government. He has to face various challenges including weak economic condition of the country. She became the second female Prime Minister of Thailand and the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to become Prime Minister. All four ruling members of his family were removed by military coups or court rulings.