Nattapong emphasized that his party cannot join a government led by Bhumjaithai and there is no need to thank Anutin because he did not comply with the MOA. He is confident the People's Party secretary will resign as promised and that the party is preparing to learn lessons to overcome the next election.
On 9 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, denied reports that Bhumjaithai had approached the People's Party to join the government, calling it likely a rumor. He said he had received no approaches or contacts and reaffirmed the party's position that as long as Bhumjaithai remains the government leader, the People's Party will not join. When asked about Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul thanking the People's Party for helping Bhumjaithai win and progress, Nattapong said there was no need to thank him because Anutin did not follow the MOA or push the constitution as agreed. Asked if he regretted voting for Anutin, Nattapong said that the decision-making process had been carefully considered and that he is now focused on moving forward and performing their duties to the best of their ability.
Mr. Nattapong addressed reports that the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is preparing to consider accusations against 44 former Move Forward MPs who signed to amend Penal Code Section 112, stating they are awaiting a legal team led by Dr. Wayo Aswarungreung, the party's deputy head of legal affairs, to provide further facts. He noted he had previously responded that the NACC's allegations against him included a claim that he used his MP position to bail out accused persons, which is untrue. In reality, the only legal issue he is implicated in relates to signing the amendment to Section 112; there are no other charges. He suggested that any unfair legal action might indicate other underlying motives.
When asked whether he believed this was a legal warfare tactic, Mr. Nattapong affirmed his belief that it was, and expressed hope that independent organizations would act impartially. He emphasized that the party prioritizes constitutional reform to enable independent bodies to fully perform their duties in punishing wrongdoing and investigating corruption, rather than being used as political tools for destruction.
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Mr. Nattapong commented on the case of Mr. Sarayut Jailak, the party secretary who announced he would resign if the People's Party won fewer than 200 seats, expressing confidence that Sarayut will honor his promise. He noted that this is a crucial time for the party's post-election management, including preparations for the next parliamentary term and training new MPs in some districts, and asked for patience through this period. He said the secretary position is important for a smooth transition and trusts Sarayut will follow through on his stated intentions.
When asked if preparations for a new party secretary were underway, Mr. Nattapong said this would be addressed in the future. He confirmed that the resignation would occur as Sarayut stated but that the choice of successor or whether Sarayut would run again would be his decision.
Asked if Sarayut had indicated whether he would remain involved behind the scenes, Mr. Nattapong said he believes Sarayut is willing to support the party in any role, whether as secretary or not. He respects Sarayut's decision but suggested Sarayut should make a direct statement himself, as it would be inappropriate for others to speak on his behalf. He is confident Sarayut will fulfill all his commitments.
Regarding criticism that the recent defeat was due to Sarayut's candidate allocation, Mr. Nattapong said many factors influence election outcomes, and candidate management is one of them. He acknowledged the need to review and learn lessons together. He affirmed the party's commitment to working harder, understanding opposition political strategies, and preparing to overcome challenges in the next election.