Anutin said he will not bind himself to anyone, does not want to backtrack on promises, and remains cautious about border incidents affecting the election. He was unclear whether Ekniti or Suphajee have accepted being candidates but said “Pee Taem” is still part of the team.
On 22 December 2025 at 13:45 GMT+7 at the Government House, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, was interviewed about whether he intends to ally with Pheu Thai or the Prachachon Party after the election. He responded, “Why use the term ‘ally’? Anyone who helps build the nation is welcome. Today, Thai people must prioritize unity. We have issues with neighboring countries; politics will follow its own course. Mostly, things happen after the election. Whoever speaks prematurely may face situations where they cannot deliver and end up having to backtrack. It causes confusion. For matters beyond control, I prefer not to comment.”
When asked about Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the Prachachon Party, saying that if Bhumjaithai forms the government, Prachachon is ready to be the opposition, Anutin said, “I am Prime Minister because of your votes.” Regarding the claim that Bhumjaithai’s policies may not be compatible with Prachachon, Anutin said Bhumjaithai is working to gain public trust and confidence, entering the election with readiness and policies beneficial to the country and people. On polls placing Bhumjaithai third, rising from last place, he thanked the public sincerely.
Cautious about border incidents affecting the election.
When asked about possible obstacles for campaigning in the seven provinces along the Thailand-Cambodia border for the 8 February 2026 election, Anutin said he believes each candidate is prepared in their area. Border situations are another matter. Election dates are determined by the Election Commission (EC) as mandated by the constitution. Currently, the government is following this mandate. Regarding future developments, efforts should be made to resolve disputes and conflicts with neighboring countries promptly. If conflicts persist by election time, the government and the EC will need to discuss the issue. Anutin confirmed, “They must talk. The government cooperates fully with the EC in all cases.”
Unclear about Ekniti and Suphajee as candidates.
When asked if Bhumjaithai would unveil three prime ministerial candidates at its 24 December policy announcement, Anutin laughed and said, “Just don’t be disappointed.” Asked if he has courted Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun as candidates, Anutin said they are working together. When pressed whether both have accepted, he reiterated they will continue working together. Asked if he will join the debate stage, Anutin said he has not considered it yet.
Reporters noted that toward the end of the interview, a promotional image from Bhumjaithai was shown, featuring Ekniti, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew, and Suphajee at the bottom, signaling that candidates might be Sihasak and Ekniti. Anutin responded, “Pee Taem (Ms. Suphajee) is still here.”