InMedia
The rise of the 'Gang of Four' in the ruling People Power party (PPP) has not gone unchallenged, and things could get ugly if no compromise is reached in the reshuffled cabinet.
The four now calling the shots in the PPP are Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, his secretary-general Theerapol Nopparampa, Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee, and Newin Chidchob, a veteran MP who controls a large PPP faction of northeastern MPs.
For his own survival, Mr Samak has been trying to erase his image as a nominee of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. That explains why he would not let Mr Thaksin interfere in his decision over who will be named to the new cabinet.
However, the expected appointment of former deputy House speaker Somsak Kiatruranond to cabinet is strongly opposed by a PPP faction of northeastern MPs, who are also demanding a cabinet post. One faction member has said a person close to Mr Samak had accepted a 10-million-baht cheque during his time as secretary-general to a minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office.
The faction member threatened to reveal more ugly episodes of the alleged cheque scandal if the unnamed person does not resign.
This challenge is obviously coming from those who are not happy with the gang of four. It remains to be seen how Mr Samak will respond.
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