Anutin reaffirmed Bhumjaithai's position that MOU 43-44 must be updated to align with current circumstances, possibly as MOU 69 based on international principles. He assured there would be no equal division and noted the border situation is calm but cautioned against complacency. He said he only communicates with Sompong's father after Julapan criticized Bhumjaithai for speaking without acting.
At 17:00 on 9 Jan 2026 at the Government House, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, as leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, was interviewed about the party's stance on canceling MOU 43-44 and whether it would be pursued after the election. He said he has consistently stated that MOU 43 and 44 must be adapted to suit current conditions.
He explained that MOU 43-44 date back to 2000 and 2001. He hopes that future governments will revisit and update them, possibly calling it a revised edition or MOU 69, to reflect present-day realities. His current government cannot do this as the parliament has dissolved, and binding actions affecting the next government are impossible now. Therefore, they must maintain stability and clarity as much as possible, which they have done continuously. The next government will likely have more time than his.
When asked if Bhumjaithai still supports canceling MOU 43 and 44, Anutin said the party has always said so, especially regarding MOU 43 which concerns border demarcation. If modern technology can prove boundaries, both sides have already provided data. Complex areas require LiDAR technology, which has been somewhat accepted. They insist on using 1:50,000 scale maps; if combined with LiDAR and these maps, they can proceed accordingly.
Regarding MOU 44, concerning maritime and aquatic areas, Anutin said this matter is far from resolved. He stressed that Bhumjaithai rejects the idea of a 50:50 split. Boundaries must follow continental shelf geography, with established maritime measurement methods. This issue is still unresolved, but the party firmly opposes 50:50 division, insisting on universally accepted and verifiable principles.
Anutin also commented on the Thai-Cambodian border situation, reporting that everything is under control and calm. However, they remain cautious and have preparedness for border area management. Previously, the Cambodian military sent a letter clarifying that their actions were unintentional.
Asked if Cambodia signaled responsibility for Thai soldiers injured, the Prime Minister emphasized that mutual apologies were exchanged between commanders in the Thai and Cambodian operational areas, ending the matter at that level in accordance with the joint statement.
Regarding the easing of tensions in many areas, the Prime Minister said this must be so, as the government's primary goal is for citizens to return home and live safely. During the recent New Year period, efforts were made to maintain peace. Thailand no longer cedes territory and has planted flags in areas confirmed as Thai soil. Vigilance continues without complacency.
Anutin also responded to comments by Julapan Omriwat, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, who said Bhumjaithai talks but fails to deliver. Anutin laughed and said he is more familiar with Julapan's father, Sompong Omriwat, with whom he frequently communicates.