Sat Sep 06 13:52:31 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Thailand’s Prime Minister-elect Anutin Charnvirakul has announced his picks for key cabinet positions: Ekniti Nitithanprapas for Finance Minister, Auttapol Rerkpiboon for Energy Minister, and Sihasak Phuangketkeow for Foreign Minister. These appointments are intended to stabilize the country following political and economic turmoil. Anutin’s rise to power involved political maneuvering, including withdrawing from an alliance with the Pheu Thai party and promising constitutional reform and elections. He’s calling for unity and strict law enforcement amidst ongoing political tensions, including legal proceedings involving Thaksin Shinawatra. Anutin’s government faces the challenge of boosting Thailand’s lagging economy.

**News Article:**

**Thailand’s New PM Anutin Unveils Cabinet Picks, Aiming for Stability**

**BANGKOK** – Prime Minister-elect Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand announced his first cabinet appointments Saturday, naming seasoned figures to lead the finance, energy, and foreign affairs ministries. The move aims to instill confidence in a nation grappling with political instability and economic challenges.

Economist Ekniti Nitithanprapas, formerly of the finance ministry and once considered for central bank governor, will take the helm of the finance ministry. Auttapol Rerkpiboon, the former head of state-owned energy giant PTT Group, will lead the energy ministry. Veteran diplomat Sihasak Phuangketkeow, a former permanent secretary, returns to the foreign service as Foreign Minister.

“These are top executives in the organizations they will be responsible for,” Anutin stated, emphasizing the experience and expertise of his choices.

The appointments follow Anutin’s surprise victory as Prime Minister on Friday, a defeat for the Pheu Thai party, historically a dominant force led by billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra. The political landscape shifted dramatically after Anutin’s withdrawal from Pheu Thai’s alliance, compounded by the recent dismissal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by a Thai court.

Amidst the political upheaval, the Supreme Court is scheduled to rule on Tuesday regarding Thaksin’s controversial hospital stay following his return from exile.

Anutin secured his premiership by forging an alliance with the progressive People’s Party, promising a referendum on constitutional amendments and a call for elections within four months. In a call for unity, Anutin urged all sides to work together, pledging strict law enforcement without political vendettas.

As Thailand’s second-largest economy struggles with lagging growth, Anutin, known for his previous roles as Deputy Prime Minister, Interior Minister, and Health Minister, faces the critical task of steering the nation towards economic recovery and stability. His appointments, pending royal approval, signal a strategic move towards consolidating power and addressing pressing challenges.

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