After Nawat Israkaiksil was Anutin Charnvirakul acting prime minister sued for defamation over criticism of COVID-19 management, with the trial court having dismissed the case but Anutin appealed. Recently, reporters asked Boss Nawat about this at the “FirstDay Orientation MGT 2026” event at MGI HALL, 6th floor, Bravo BKK Shopping Center, Rama 9.
Asked about the case with Prime Minister Anutin who filed an appeal, where does the case stand now?
“The court accepted the appeal and reversed the ruling, saying the case has merit again, from previously being dismissed. The court read the judgment that he is a public figure, and I am an affected person expressing honest opinions as a Thai citizen, so the case was dismissed.
But Mr. Anutin wanted to proceed further. He had his personal lawyer appeal for some time. The court reread the verdict, now from a different perspective than before, suggesting it could cause him damage, so there was reason to consider it. Therefore, in March I must appear in court again for this case, to let the court hear explanations and examine witnesses.
I don't know either. COVID has been a long time ago. Criticism is normal; almost everyone criticizes. I didn't get a single government vaccine dose. I bought vaccines for myself and all company staff, two doses each, through a private hospital, paying several hundred thousand baht. I was in ICU for 27 days, nearly died, almost lost my mind, and my mental state was poor even after discharge.
When I came out, I was quite disappointed with the public health system. He is the Minister of Public Health, so I spoke normally and criticized him. He sent a court summons accusing me of defamation, a criminal case. He didn’t claim damages but wanted me jailed. I survived and thought it was over because I never sued back. But it wasn't over. They appealed, the court reversed the decision, finding the case valid and possibly damaging him. Now I have to lower my head and continue as the defendant.”
Are you worried about this now?
“Worry? I worry more for Thailand. Honestly, I’m not afraid of losing this case to Anutin. If I did, it would set a precedent for Thailand. But I still believe in the justice system. Ultimately, the system must address legal points and documents. All my cases are done except this and Kamin's. No grudges with ordinary people over small matters.
I’ve told many people and even told him that it should end now. He is prime minister already, so why not end it? Why bother me over trivial things? The court already said there was no offense. What does he want from me? I don't sue back. I feel increasingly disappointed.”
Actually, I wanted to vote for him. But since he sued me, I dare not. If he doesn't perform well and I criticize him, he might sue again. Just say it openly—why sue Thai people? Sue Cambodia instead. I only gave my opinion because I nearly died and after recovering spoke briefly, then got sued. Focus on other issues like call centers or shady matters, then I would support him fully and vote for him nationwide in Miss Grand. But now I can't. Why sue Thai people? It's a personal issue. A prime minister must be open-minded with Thais but firm with invaders, corruption, or call centers.
Don’t forget to vote. Love whoever you like. If you support this government, vote for them. If you want change, vote for others. But the constitution must be amended. Let me say clearly: amending the constitution does not include Section 112. Don’t be fooled by propaganda. The key is to reduce the Senate’s power and reform independent bodies like the Election Commission and National Anti-Corruption Commission. The Senate approves resolutions and even presents them to the King, so they choose. If senators are bought, it means politicians control them. The constitution must be amended; otherwise, we will keep using the 'Uncle Tu' version, the coup version.”
Do you want to enter politics in the future?
“No, I don’t want to. Many parties have invited me; I’m very popular. But I feel politics is disgraceful nowadays. The Election Commission works very poorly. Listen and don’t sue me. You operate on taxpayers’ money and budget but perform terribly. When criticized, you say if you’re not trusted, don’t vote. Is our country a democracy or just your will? We can’t live like that.”
Don’t forget to vote. This election is an effort to change the country’s atmosphere, so be mindful. Everyone must vote, even if it’s difficult. Endure it; this is our country. This time, go out and exercise your rights. Vote for whoever you want. We must help each other and not give up.”},{