Photo from The Hills Times
Thailand's foreign minister resigned abruptly, expressing dissatisfaction after being removed as one of the country's deputy prime ministers in a Cabinet reshuffle. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed Parnpree Bahiddha-Nugara's resignation on Monday, stating his respect for the decision and the commencement of a search for a replacement.
Srettha acknowledged the inevitability of discontent resulting from the reshuffle, expressing apologies to Parnpree and gratitude for his past contributions. He expressed confidence in the new minister's ability to carry forward the country's interests without specifying a timeline for the appointment.
The government, in power for less than a year, announced its inaugural Cabinet shuffle on Sunday. Subsequently, reports circulated regarding Parnpree's resignation letter, dated Sunday, which highlighted his dissatisfaction with the removal from the deputy prime minister position while retaining his role as foreign minister.
Thai ministers are permitted to hold multiple Cabinet positions, and it is customary for senior ministers to serve as deputy prime ministers concurrently. Srettha explained that Parnpree's removal from the deputy prime minister role aimed to enable him to focus on his responsibilities as foreign minister.
In an interview with the state broadcaster Thai PBS, Parnpree confirmed the authenticity of the resignation letter but denied any personal discontent. While acknowledging the prime minister's prerogative in decision-making, he noted the decision's departure from convention, expressing concerns about his effectiveness as foreign minister without the deputy prime minister title.
Parnpree, appointed in August, was actively involved in diplomatic efforts, including negotiations for the release of Thai workers held hostage by Hamas in Israel and leading the first humanitarian aid initiative to Myanmar, which has been grappling with widespread displacement following a military coup in 2021.
The Cabinet shuffle also saw Prime Minister Srettha relinquishing his role as finance minister. His successor, Pichai Chunhavajira, former chairman of energy conglomerate Bangchak and the Stock Exchange of Thailand, assumes the finance minister position alongside a deputy prime minister role.
