Prawit Backers are Promoted to PPRP Ranks

Last updated on May 6th, 2021 at 10:28 am

Prawit Wongsuwon ‘s main supporters have been appointed his deputies, as the former general consolidates his leadership of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), the largest faction in the ruling coalition.

The group organized its first general meeting under the guidance of the former general on Friday to appoint 10 Deputies, two Deputy General Secretaries and other important vacancies.

Key loyalists like Santi Promphat, Thamanat Prompow, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Nataphol Teepsuwan and Paiboon Nititawan were among the common names selected as Deputy Members. All backed the former army chief as the heir to Uttama Savanayana, who had been pulled aside after Prawit members orchestrated a mass resignation of party representatives.

The new leader emphasized cohesion within the group and claimed he also had the right to replace some workers as he saw fit following Friday’s choices.

The PPRP ‘s influence under the new regime will be checked in a Samut Prakan by-election on Aug 9 in constituency 5.

Krungsiwilai Suthinphueak would again fight the seat for the PPRP after the actor-turned-politician was granted a yellow vote-buying card by the election commission. He was discovered giving a wreath and 1,000 baht at a wake, a violation of election law.

Though Prawit loyalists are calling for a cabinet reshuffle, Mr Uttama, who is still the finance minister, left the group Thursday. Ex secretary-general of the group Sontirat Sontijirawong, Suvit Maesincee and Kobsak Pootrakul have resigned.