Cabinet starts to take shape

A new cabinet lineup is beginning to take shape as coalition partners negotiate the distribution of ministerial posts under an agreed formula, with the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) emerging as the dominant force in the prospective administration led by Prime Minister-designate Anutin Charnvirakul.

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Media reports yesterday said Bhumjaithai has secured 19 cabinet seats spanning 14 ministries, underscoring its central role in assembling a parliamentary majority. Of these, five positions fall within the prime minister's quota, including deputy prime ministerial posts combined with key ministerial portfolios.

The Defence Ministry remains under consideration, with speculation that an external candidate — a so-called “outsider” — could be appointed to strike a political balance and reassure coalition partners.

Under the proposed allocation, Bhumjaithai is expected to oversee the Interior, Finance, Commerce, Foreign Affairs, Transport, Energy, Tourism and Sports, Natural Resources and Environment, Industry, Public Health, Culture, Justice, Digital Economy and Society ministries, as well as the Prime Minister's Office.

The breadth of these portfolios reflects both the party’s numerical strength in the House and its leverage in coalition negotiations.