On December 23, reporters from the Government House reported the annual tradition of assigning nicknames to the government and ministers. This practice, upheld by reporters at Government House, reflects the media's perspective on the government’s performance without personal bias. The reporters unanimously agreed on the nicknames for the government, ministers, and the quote of the year for 2024, as follows:
Government Nickname:
- "Fatherly Government"
Highlighting the "fatherly" role of the government leader, a hallmark of Thaksin Shinawatra's brand. The leader’s devotion to protecting, nurturing, and paving the way for his offspring reflects the phrase, "Father plans, child executes." The comparison emphasizes the leader’s strong familial ties and protective nature.
Minister Nicknames:
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra: "Paetong Script"
- Phumtham Wechayachai (Deputy PM and Defense Minister): "The Booted Comrade"
- Anutin Charnvirakul (Deputy PM and Interior Minister): "Obstacle of Pride"
- Pirapan Salirathavibhaga (Deputy PM and Energy Minister): "Pirapan Collapse"
- Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong (Justice Minister): "Thawee IP"
- Chalermchai Sri-on (Minister of Natural Resources and Environment): "Democracy Wobbler"
- Ekanat Promphan (Minister of Industry): "Unite (for) Thai Claims"
- Jiraporn Sinthuprai (Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office): "Jiraporn Enough"
The "Forgotten Ministers":
This group includes ministers with high-profile portfolios but underwhelming performance in their first three months:
- Suchart Chomklin (Deputy Commerce Minister)
- Pol. Gen. Permpoon Chidchob (Education Minister)
- Naphinthra Sirisapapong (Deputy Commerce Minister)
Despite overseeing Grade-A ministries like commerce and education, their lack of impactful actions has drawn criticism, with the public urging them to deliver results in the coming year.
Quote of the Year: "My husband is from the South."