Thailand’s King Swears in New Government After Turmoil, Reports Reuters

BANGKOK – Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn officially swore in Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and 35 cabinet ministers in Bangkok on Friday, marking the formation of a new government in the country’s second-largest economy following a period of political instability.

Paetongtarn, 38, the leader of the ruling Pheu Thai party, was appointed by parliament last month, making her Thailand’s youngest prime minister. She succeeded her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed by court order over an ethics violation.

The new cabinet, which received formal endorsement from the king earlier this week, includes 17 members from the Pheu Thai party, including the prime minister, while 19 positions are distributed among coalition partners.

During a ceremony at Bangkok’s Dusit Palace, Paetongtarn and her ministers took an oath of allegiance in front of King Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida. After the swearing-in, the king expressed his hope that the cabinet would approach their duties with determination for the benefit of the nation and its people.

Paetongtarn, the youngest daughter of the controversial former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has never held a government position before. She will face several challenges, particularly concerning the struggling economy.

As the second woman and fourth member of the Shinawatra family to assume the office of prime minister, Paetongtarn follows in the footsteps of three previous premiers who were ousted through coups or legal actions.

Her government is set to present its policy statement to parliament next Thursday and Friday, which will formally initiate her administration.