The newly appointed cabinet is preparing for its oath-taking ceremony, expected on April 6, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul outlining key policy priorities ranging from energy and environmental issues to anti-corruption and a renewed crackdown on drug trafficking.
Speaking after the royal command formally endorsing the 35-member cabinet on Tuesday, the premier described the appointments as a great honour and pledged that all ministers would work to their full capability in serving the public.
He said a draft of the government’s policy statement to parliament has already been largely completed, with about a week remaining for further refinement and the possible inclusion of additional proposals.
The policy statement is the last step required for the new government to officially begin working. Mr Anutin said over the weekend that the new government would be in place before the Songkran holiday in mid-April.
The prime minister said that the parties in the Bhumjaithai-led coalition had been consulted during the drafting process, and the final document would incorporate input from all sectors.
Among the key focus areas, he highlighted energy and environmental challenges, as well as the need to intensify efforts against corruption and illegal drugs.
While the oath-taking date has yet to be officially confirmed, the premier said initial coordination suggests April 6, pending formal notification from the Royal Household Bureau.
He added that ministers have been instructed to remain ready at all times. A cabinet meeting is expected to be convened immediately after the ceremony.
The administration is backed by a coalition of 16 parties holding a combined 292 seats in parliament, although only two parties, Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai, hold cabinet positions.
Bhumjaithai has 31 cabinet seats and Pheu Thai has nine. Thirty-five people are in the cabinet and some have concurrent positions.
Thirteen ministers retain their previous posts, while 14 newcomers have joined the cabinet.
