Bangkok: “Decha Isara,” the Deputy Minister of Public Health and Secretary-General of the Democrat Party, has confirmed that the Democrat Party has secured an additional deputy minister position, with “Chaichana” being appointed. He also mentioned that he might be transferred to serve as the Deputy Minister of Interior, a move the party must come to terms with amidst internal challenges.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Decha Isara Khaothong acknowledged that the Democrat Party has been allocated a quota of only one deputy minister. He expressed uncertainty regarding the potential acquisition of an additional deputy prime minister position, stating that he has not yet engaged in discussions with the party leader about this matter. While there is speculation about his transfer to the Deputy Minister of Interior role, he indicated that he has only learned about this through media reports.
Mr. Decha further clarified that the additional assistant minister position is intended for Mr. Chaichana Decha-decho, the deputy leader of the party. However, he refrained from disclosing which ministry the assistant minister will be assigned to. For existing ministers, re-submission of resumes is unnecessary due to already met qualifications. In contrast, Mr. Chaichana has already submitted his resume to the Office of the Prime Minister for verification, without a backup name, should any qualification issues arise.
When questioned about whether acquiring an additional ministerial position is considered an achievement, especially given the earlier perspective of collaborating with the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Decha Isara emphasized the need for the Democrat Party to accept certain realities. He remarked on the challenges faced by the party from former members, describing them as “idiots or political bankrupt people” who often criticize the Democrat Party after leaving.
Mr. Decha Isara also mentioned the anticipated completion of the cabinet appointment process within the week. He admitted his likelihood of being appointed as Deputy Minister of Interior but remained uncertain about the final decision. When probed about the possibility of him assuming this role while Mr. Chaichana takes over as Deputy Minister of Public Health, Mr. Decha Isara expressed his desire for such an arrangement. He noted that recent events have been tumultuous but is optimistic about the government and military’s collaborative efforts to resolve issues, suggesting no further complications should arise.
Regarding the clarity of ministerial proportions within coalition parties, Mr. Decha stated that inquiries should be directed to the Prime Minister as he is not privy to such details. Following a coalition party meeting at the Rosewood Hotel, Mr. Decha Isara expressed confidence that the coalition’s issues are largely resolved, although he refrained from asserting complete certainty.