Theng Natthapong clarified that his raised hand in the debate was to promote amnesty, not to amend Section 112. He urged Anutin to stop creating misleading political narratives for children. He expressed confidence that the People’s Party will win the election and warned against interference from the second- and third-place parties in government formation, blocking their attempts to intervene.
On 26 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party and prime ministerial candidate, spoke about being the sole participant in a debate hosted by Thairath TV who raised his hand in favor of the amnesty bill that includes prisoners charged under Section 112.
Mr. Natthapong stated that his raised hand that day did not mean he agreed with amending Section 112 but was to push for amnesty for political prisoners. He expressed concern over statements by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, who used this issue as a political excuse and created political conditions, seemingly to stir controversy unrelated to Section 112 amendments.
Mr. Natthapong said he did not want Mr. Anutin to use this issue as political rhetoric or to fabricate stories misleading children. According to the Constitutional Court’s rulings, no political party can push for amending Section 112 anymore. Regarding rumors that the 'blue party' would not cooperate with the 'orange party,' with Mr. Anutin clearly stating he would not join a government with parties that support amending Section 112, Mr. Natthapong said he had no concerns because voters will choose between a government led by the People’s Party or one led by Mr. Anutin.
When asked which parties the People’s Party would refuse to ally with, Mr. Natthapong said they could not partner with the Kla Party. As for Bhumjaithai, if they want to ally with Kla, that is their decision. He added that from now on, the people themselves must decide what kind of government they want.
Regarding whether the conditions set by the People’s Party might lead them to become the opposition, Mr. Natthapong said that the party winning first place in the election should lead government formation. He suggested asking Bhumjaithai if they intend to form a rival government coalition against the People’s Party. If Mr. Anutin is confident he will not win first place, he should not set conditions against the People’s Party’s government formation.
Mr. Natthapong also said the People’s Party is confident of winning this election. Their sole remaining mission is to gain the trust of the people so they have enough seats to lead the government. This will prevent second- and third-place parties from uniting to form a rival government coalition, which goes against parliamentary principles.
Regarding the 44 MPs from the Move Forward Party who seriously violated ethical standards after initiating the amendment of Section 112, Mr. Natthapong said the People’s Party will not change any candidates or election nominees. They have managed risks carefully and planned thoroughly, and will now focus solely on the election campaign.