Thai King endorses Anutin as new PM

BANGKOK — Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's prime minister on Sunday, two days after he was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed his predecessor.

Anutin, 58, succeeds Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, dismissed last week after being found guilty of ethics violations over a politically compromising phone call with neighboring Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen.

The new prime minister had served in Paetongtarn's Cabinet as a deputy prime minister and an interior minister, but resigned his positions and withdrew his party from her coalition government after news of the leaked phone call caused public uproar.

Anutin received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at his party Bhumjaithai's headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties expected to join his coalition government. They wore white civil servants' uniforms used for royal and state ceremonies.

"I'd like to take an oath that I determine to perform my duties to my fullest capabilities, with honesty and virtue," Anutin said after receiving the endorsement.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Anutin assured the public that his new government was fully committed to working tirelessly and with steadfast dedication to help Thailand swiftly overcome its current crises, despite several constraints in fulfilling duties.

Priority areas

He outlined four priority areas of action — the economy, the border conflict with Cambodia, natural disasters and crimes.

To address economic challenges, he pledged immediate measures to reduce the cost of living, including expenses on energy, transportation and logistics.

On national security, he said he would resolve Thai-Cambodian border disputes through peaceful means, ensuring that Thailand does not cede territory or compromise national interests.

In addition, Anutin said his administration would actively promote transparency and expedite legal proceedings where appropriate, emphasizing that the justice system must operate independently, in accordance with mechanisms outlined in the constitution and relevant laws.

"My government aims to amend the constitution, clearing the way for drafting a new charter through the prescribed legal process," he said, affirming the intention to dissolve parliament within the agreed time frame of four months after taking office.

The prime minister expressed confidence in gaining support from all sectors, stating that his administration aims to lay a strong foundation for the next government to build upon, ensuring the people's well-being, stability and enduring prosperity.

The royal endorsement paves the way for cabinet formation and policy address to the parliament, a formality required before the new government officially assumes office.

Anutin won the vote in parliament on Friday with support from the main opposition People's Party, which said it would remain part of the opposition, leaving the new government potentially a minority one.

Yang Wanli in Bangkok, Yang Yilin in Beijing, Xinhua and agencies contributed to this story.