Anutin will fly to Hat Yai on 14 January to oversee flood relief and monitor incidents in the three southern border provinces. He joked about Cambodian ministers being major campaigners and emphasized that border discussions are only at the leadership level. He insisted there is no need to involve the UN, stating he is not someone who complains easily. Today, eight ministers are absent from the cabinet meeting.
At 09:50 on 13 January 2026, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, gave an interview regarding his planned trip to Songkhla Province on 14 January 2026, stating, "I will review the flood situation summary in Hat Yai and check whether the relief efforts have been fully completed. This is not only for Hat Yai but also nearby provinces. I will follow up to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. In the evening, I have a mourning event, so I will take the opportunity to monitor the situation."
When asked about the recovery status in Hat Yai, Anutin said it is not yet 100 percent because the damage was extensive. However, efforts are underway to restore as much as possible. Reports indicate that at least during the New Year festival, services were ready for tourists and locals. On 14 January, he will also invite the Secretary-General of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC) to discuss measures to assist victims of terrorism and support affected businesses. The summary has been submitted, but actions will be expedited. Since the meeting will be in Songkhla, it is a convenient location.
Meanwhile, as leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin addressed the case where Cambodian ministers advised not to vote for him in the 8 February 2026 election but to support the Pheu Thai or People's Party to avoid conflict. Anutin jokingly said, "Wow, that's a major campaigner right there."
Regarding social media speculation that the government is stirring nationalism similar to Cambodia, Anutin said all Thais love their country naturally—no need to provoke it. He pointed out that no one is willing to open border checkpoints at this time. When asked if he was concerned this would reduce his popularity, Anutin responded that they are telling people whom to support and whom not to support. He said he has always stood firm in defending honor, sovereignty, and the nation alongside the military. Being told not to support him implies they believe he has caused them significant harm and that there might be others they can control. That's up to them.
When asked if this constitutes political interference in Thailand, Anutin said it is a matter for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but that he holds no grudges. If discussions occur, they will be at the national leadership level. Asked if this should be reported to the United Nations (UN), Anutin said, "No need. Why act like someone who complains all the time?"
A reporter asked if such remarks indicate Cambodia fears Anutin. He replied that he does not want anyone to be afraid but is simply doing his job fully. He said that even if he were no longer prime minister, he would still love his country by nature. He believes people can think for themselves about these statements. He added that those who should be worried are the parties Cambodia supports.
Regarding Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, saying they will not cooperate with Bhumjaithai, Anutin said he has not discussed with anyone yet. Each party is separate. When the time comes, he will listen to the people's voice. Whether other parties listen or not is their business. Asked if Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai can reconcile if voters want them to join forces, Anutin replied, "Wait for the voters to tell us. They haven't said yet."
At the cabinet meeting, eight ministers took leave.
Before chairing the cabinet meeting, Anutin visited an exhibition showcasing OTOP product development to strengthen the grassroots economy and Thai fabric products from the 'Thai Fabric Wear for Fun' project. He then received a bouquet of orchids to promote the 70th Teachers' Day event in 2026 from Mr. Ong-art Wongprayoorn, Deputy Minister of Education.
Reporters added that today, eight ministers notified their absence from the cabinet meeting, namely:
1. Lt. Gen. Thammanat Prompao, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives,
2. Mrs. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education,
3. Mr. Suchat Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment,
4. Mr. Sakda Wichiansilp, Deputy Minister of Interior,
5. Mr. Worachot Sukonkajorn, Deputy Minister of Public Health,
6. Master Sergeant Yotsingh Liamlert, Deputy Minister of Industry,
7. Mr. Amin Mayuso, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives,
8. Mr. Nares Thamrongthipakorn, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives.