BANGKOK (ANN/THE NATION) – The leader of Pheu Thai, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has instructed her party’s MPs to support Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s decision to appoint Wissanu Krea-ngam as his legal adviser. She cautioned that the government coalition could collapse if Srettha is removed from office.
Paetongtarn issued this warning during a gathering of Pheu Thai lawmakers at the party’s headquarters on Wednesday.
Srettha appointed Wissanu, a former deputy PM in the previous administration led by General Prayut Chan-o-cha, to assist him in a case before the Constitutional Court. This case arose from allegations by 40 senators that Srettha violated the Constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban as a minister despite his criminal record.
Acknowledging that some Pheu Thai MPs may have concerns about appointing a former “adversary” to advise the prime minister, Paetongtarn reassured them.
“Wissanu comes with good intentions to assist the government,” she assured MPs, noting his previous service under her father’s Thai Rak Thai government, Thaksin Shinawatra.
She described Wissanu as a competent and well-rounded individual, urging MPs to accept and understand his appointment.
Paetongtarn stressed the necessity for Srettha to have a capable adviser to ensure the government’s adherence to administrative regulations while implementing its policies.
In light of the legal challenge faced by Srettha, she urged MPs to stand united behind him, emphasising that this case represents the primary legal obstacle confronting the government.
Paetongtarn encouraged any dissatisfied Pheu Thai MPs regarding Wissanu’s appointment to engage in dialogue with her.
During the meeting, she underscored the importance of all Pheu Thai MPs attending House sessions to deliberate the fiscal 2028 budget bill in the upcoming parliamentary session.
