Anutin said Sihasak accepted the Bhumjaithai Party's prime minister candidacy through intuition, adding that such things are clear at a glance and that he is suitable during the Thai-Cambodian border situation.
On 25 Dec 2025 GMT+7 at the Government House, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, explained that Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew was announced as the party's second prime minister candidate because the party is expanding and expects to gain more MPs. Previously having only one candidate risked work disruptions if issues arose, so they prepared a backup.
Regarding earlier names like Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Aekniti Nitithanprapas and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthumpun as Bhumjaithai prime minister candidates, Anutin said they sought respected individuals trusted by the public. Each had some limitations they respected, which is normal, but both agreed to join the team if he continued to lead the country. They could not be forced, as they might prefer their current roles.
Asked if Sihasak being both prime minister candidate and deputy prime minister boosts his credibility in foreign talks, Anutin said the public sees Sihasak's dedication. At this time, foreign affairs are crucial to securing Thailand’s recognition and dignity internationally.
Anutin added that Sihasak has performed well, and as prime minister, he is satisfied and grateful. Sihasak covers international trade issues and, out of respect for Anutin, accepted to be the Bhumjaithai prime minister candidate. He is suitable to ensure continuity if Anutin cannot serve, so the party prepared for any scenario to avoid disruption.
Regarding when Sihasak accepted the candidacy amid claims he was forced to wear a Bhumjaithai vest, Anutin said no one can force anyone of their maturity. He mentioned hearing about a program by Danai Ekmahasawat ('Old Dog') that speculated wildly, saying if he did that as a child, his father would have scolded him severely. He advised against showing foolishness. Sihasak has already registered as a party member.
When asked exactly when Sihasak accepted the candidacy, Anutin said he had ongoing talks with him. Among the three candidates — Aekniti, Supachai, and Sihasak — all have extensive national-level experience, including Sihasak’s past as a career diplomat and assistant minister. They are all suitable and trustworthy, and there is no political coercion. At the Bhumjaithai policy announcement on 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Sihasak wore a jacket but took it off to wear the party vest when others did, joining the group photo willingly. They did not force anyone, and even encouraged him to wear a suit if he preferred while presenting his foreign affairs vision. Everyone acted willingly.
Anutin criticized uninformed criticism, saying it likely prevents contact and information sharing because false analysis misleads the public and offers no benefit. He urged higher journalistic standards, especially in political news during election times, to avoid accusations of media bias.
Asked about Sihasak’s timing to accept since on 23 Dec 2025 GMT+7 he said the prime minister had not yet courted him as a candidate, Anutin said that without an official announcement, it’s just acquaintanceship. Courting would have started when inviting him to join the coalition government, with discussions like “Are you ready to help? If others are unavailable, it’s you.” Sihasak has publicly expressed his preference for foreign affairs work and is increasingly familiar with politics after presenting on 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7 to party members nationwide, boosting everyone's confidence.
Regarding if Sihasak accepted on 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Anutin said sometimes people communicate intuitively. He added that Sihasak’s selection relates to the Thai-Cambodian border issues requiring negotiation with several countries. Everything is interconnected, and Sihasak is experienced, though Anutin cannot explain alone.
Asked if party members have chances to be prime minister candidates in the next election, Anutin said everyone has a chance. This election adjusts the party’s status amid some limitations. After the 8 Feb 2026 GMT+7 election, if trusted by the public, the party’s position will be clearer. Ultimately, they must follow the voters’ decisions, as the people are the final arbiters, not him.
When reporters pressed about the party’s policy claiming no gray areas, Anutin replied all parties have none, smiled, and then went upstairs to work at the Thai Khu Fah Building.