Anutin showed a shocked expression after reports of vote-buying at 7,500 baht. He challenged, "Let me know who it is; I'll buy buffalo horns for them." He told the media he was unaware and has never done such a thing, urging them not to trick him with such questions. He declared he doesn't care if Kan from Ubon doesn't wear the Bhumjaithai shirt while campaigning; being an MP is enough. He expressed confidence that Southern Isan remains strong but said he does not underestimate any party, as it depends on the voters.
At 11:30 a.m. on 20 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, reiterated that he prefers to campaign after official working hours. He said if possible, he would avoid campaigning during official hours and, although he could take leave, he does not want to. He also noted that in the afternoons, people are still working.
Regarding the case where Ms. Sudarat Pitakkhapanlop, a candidate for MP in Ubon Ratchathani, wore a shirt bearing Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra's image, the prime minister said he did not know when this happened or if it was yesterday. Ms. Sudarat explained that her hair is now black, but in the clip, it appeared highlighted. He said, "Why should I care?" Since she is a Bhumjaithai MP candidate, he just hopes she gets elected as their MP, and that is sufficient for him.
When asked if he was confident about winning votes from constituencies traditionally held by other parties, Anutin said he has not yet visited Ubon Ratchathani but understands the party's support there remains strong. He also said he is not yet required to go to the area.
Asked whether Ms. Sudarat has called to consult him, Anutin laughed and said there are people responsible who divide duties by zones.
Regarding whether the Bhumjaithai Party still has a strong base in Southern Isan, Anutin turned to Ms. Traisulee Traisoranakul, the prime minister's secretary overseeing Southern Isan, who confirmed, "Yes, it is very strong."
Concerning reports of vote-buying at 7,500 baht and calls for parties to pledge not to engage in such practices, Anutin responded by questioning, "What about the 7,500 baht?" When a reporter explained that polls suggest vote-buying reaches 7,500 baht per person, Anutin appeared shocked and repeated, "Vote-buying at 7,500 baht?" Then he joked that buffalo horns cost only 700 baht and asked who is paying 7,500 baht, saying to inform him so he can buy buffalo horns to cover it.
When pressed whether vote-buying at 7,500 baht per person is impossible, Anutin said, "I don’t know. I dare not say. I have never done it." He said he realized the question was a trap to get him to deny it.
Anutin also spoke about the fierce competition in this election, saying the battle has been intense since the past year (year of the pig). He urged that the fight be within the rules, stating he has no problem with competition because it is beautiful when conducted with rules and spirit.
Regarding whether not participating in debate stages with other party leaders and candidates would be a missed opportunity, he said that is up to individual views. Personally, he does not see it that way because he presents his vision daily through his work.
On whether he is confident that organic campaigning will persuade voters, Anutin said the term "organic" has no fixed form and he does not expect anything specific. He does it sincerely and benefits from visiting areas to listen directly to citizens. This is not one-way communication but allows people to connect with him, express satisfaction or dissatisfaction, and share what they want or don't want. He gains insight into problems they face and want him to solve. He added that he hardly campaigns by speaking about candidate numbers or directly urging votes.
When asked if there will be any surprises or special tactics in the final stretch, Anutin said there will be none. They just work and use all forms of publicity on every channel to inform people about what the Bhumjaithai Party offers if elected.
Asked what worries him most in the final stretch, Anutin shrugged slightly and said, "Do your best. Whatever it is, do it for the people as much as possible." When asked if he is worried, he said he is not, because the decision rests with the voters and the people.
Regarding his current motivation for campaigning, Anutin said it is the respect he receives from the military and the continuous support from the people.
On how he views the lively campaigning of the Pheu Thai Party, Anutin said everyone has their confidence and methods. Those who believe in their approach should proceed. Bhumjaithai believes in its own approach and considers it suitable for the party’s style.
Regarding the statement that Pheu Thai should not be underestimated, Anutin said he never underestimates anyone and supports all candidates from every party. When asked if parties could eventually cooperate, Anutin said that decision belongs to the people.