The new lineup had been royally endorsed by His Majesty the King and an oath-taking ceremony has been set for Thursday, reports the Bangkok Post.
Political watchers see Ms Paetongtarn’s move as a bid to stay in the Cabinet if she is temporarily relieved from duty as prime minister by the Constitutional Court’s decision due later today.
The court will decide whether to accept a petition accusing her of serious ethical violations shown in a leaked audio of a phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen last month.
Ms Paetongtarn yesterday denied the speculation, and said her taking on an additional role reflected her desire to oversee the government’s soft power policy.
Key changes in the new Cabinet include Phumtham Wejayachai, who is now deputy prime minister and interior minister. His previous position as defence minister has been left unfilled.
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan is replaced by Jatuporn Buruspat, permanent secretary for natural resources and environment, and veteran Suchart Tanchareon returns as PM’s Office Minister.
Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, who was culture minister until replaced by Ms Paetongtarn, moves to minister for higher education, science, research and innovation.
Narumon Pinyosinwat moves from the agriculture and cooperatives portfolio to serve as education minister.