Anutin laughed, saying the projection was too low after the NIDA Poll estimated Bhumjaithai would win 150 seats. He affirmed the party will contest every constituency with no division of areas for coalition partners or rivals. He requested adherence to the rules and noted that politicians with the initial 'T' linked to drug offenses are not 'Tin' (Anutin). He insisted this is unrelated to Bhumjaithai and denied political discrediting.
On 21 Jan 2026 at 11:36 AM at Nong Sangkhang Reservoir, Na Kae District, Nakhon Phanom Province, Anutin Charnvirakul, prime minister candidate and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, was interviewed regarding the NIDA Poll’s forecast for the 2026 election results, which placed Bhumjaithai first with 150 seats. He said this was below their target and laughed.
When asked if he aimed for 500 seats, Anutin replied, “Is that so?” He added that everyone’s goal is to exceed 150 seats, but polls serve as indicators and tools to assess how well they have worked. If results match expectations, there is no doubt and they can proceed. If not, they must review and adjust.
Asked whether 150 seats would be enough to lead the government formation, Anutin said this would be addressed after election results. They never announced a target between 50 and 200 seats. Instead, they rely on dedication and sincerity to earn public confidence. The people will decide on 8 February, and that night they will know their role.
When asked again if there would be no area-sharing with rivals, Anutin replied by asking what dividing areas means. He emphasized that they will contest every constituency, with all Bhumjaithai members actively seeking voters’ support.
Asked if the previous ruling parties had requested area-sharing in some constituencies, Anutin firmly denied this and asked if the reporter played golf. He stated that competition must follow the rules, based on one’s own abilities. No one requests or accepts such arrangements.
Anutin also addressed reports by the CSI LA page revealing a southern deputy leader of the Blue Party with the initial 'T' involved in drug trafficking. He said police had not reported this but he was aware from news sources. He affirmed it was not 'Tin' (himself).
When asked if military politicians with initial 'T' view this as political discrediting during the election, Anutin stated it did not originate from Bhumjaithai nor the government. Civil servants continue their duties fully despite limited government power during parliament dissolution. He mentioned that during campaigning, there were no motorcades, and provincial governors and district chiefs avoided welcoming him. He himself did not invite them, fearing trouble. He said he is focused on administration, while permanent officials handle operations.
Asked whether the Minister of Justice had reported on 10 politicians linked to scammers and drug cases and their parties, Anutin reiterated he follows a policy of anonymity focusing on behavior. He does not inquire about identities and instructs full action against lawbreakers without exceptions. He does not require reports on names or further steps, maintaining this approach consistently.
