Prime Minister Anutin has ordered relief efforts for the southern region, addressing both violence and flooding, while the caretaker cabinet remains extremely cautious, fearing that approving various projects could violate the constitution.
On 13 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Siripong Angkasakulkiat, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, disclosed the cabinet meeting results following multiple disturbances in the south. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directed the Ministries of Finance and Energy to urgently seek measures to reduce burdens on entrepreneurs. He also assigned Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew to closely monitor global geopolitical developments to assess their impact on Thailand’s economy and security in 2026.
The spokesperson added that the Prime Minister emphasized the Ministry of Interior expedite disbursement of relief funds swiftly to affected citizens, especially those impacted by flooding and the Thai-Cambodian border situation. Although residents have returned home, many have yet to receive compensation for evacuation costs and home repairs.
Regarding the cabinet meeting atmosphere, reports indicated a cautious tone. Several ministers, including those from the Ministries of Finance, Commerce, and Tourism, expressed concerns that approving projects during the "caretaker government" period might violate Article 169 of the constitution. This uncertainty stems from ambiguity about which matters impose obligations on the next government. Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno explained that no definitive answers are available—even the Constitutional Court or the Election Commission might not resolve this. Therefore, he instructed the Legal Council and the Cabinet Secretary to develop clear operational guidelines to prevent future legal complications.