The Bhumjaithai Party remains hesitant whether to keep the Kla Tham Party close or push it into opposition, while preparing to rebrand cabinet ministers to enhance the image of the 'Anutin 2' government. Meanwhile, Ruttaphon and Atthaphon face setbacks, as attention turns to Pridi Daochai's rise to control the energy sector.
On 17 Feb 2026 GMT+7, developments within the Bhumjaithai Party continue as reporters closely monitor the progress of government formation, with Bhumjaithai as the leading party. It remains unclear whether the Kla Tham Party will join the coalition government.
According to sources from Bhumjaithai regarding the status of Kla Tham joining the government, there are two perspectives: it may be better to keep Kla Tham close rather than distant. However, there are concerns about Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao’s qualifications. If appointed minister and issues arise regarding his eligibility, it could adversely affect the appointer, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, repeating a precedent similar to former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s appointment of Pichit Chuenban as minister despite lacking qualifications.
Many believe Lt. Col. Thammanat was appointed previously because it was a short-term government, and no complaints about his qualifications had emerged then. Furthermore, the previous coalition between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham was a reluctant union due to a minority government, but this necessity no longer exists.
Another critical factor is that Kla Tham has penetrated strongholds in several areas traditionally dominated by Bhumjaithai, including Suphanburi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Surat Thani. This has caused dissatisfaction, as allowing Kla Tham to grow further could negatively impact future election outcomes.
Regarding ministerial appointments, Bhumjaithai is allotted 19 cabinet seats. Four are already confirmed for external ministers: Mr. Bowornsak Uwanno as Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Supachai Sutthumphan as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, and Mr. Akniti Nitithanprapas as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.
Among other external ministers expected to join is Mr. Pridi Daochai, who will likely become Minister of Energy, replacing Mr. Atthaphon Rerkpiboon, who will not continue. Similarly, General Ruttaphon Nawarat, Minister of Justice, is also unlikely to continue.
Thus, 15 cabinet seats remain for Bhumjaithai to allocate, mostly retaining existing ministries to ensure continuity. For example, Mr. Anutin will serve as Prime Minister while also Minister of Interior; Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn as Minister of Transport; Mr. Pradorn Prissanantakul as Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office; Mr. Chaichon Chidchob as Minister of Digital Economy and Society; and Ms. Sabida Thaiset as Minister of Culture.
Mr. Suchart Chomklin is listed as a ministerial candidate but will not hold the Ministry of Labor, as Bhumjaithai wishes to avoid challenging public sentiment.
Considering a ratio of ten MPs per minister, the Pheu Thai Party is expected to receive about eight ministerial positions, including quotas for the Ministries of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Education, Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and Labor.
Reports indicate Pheu Thai aims not to appoint Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat as a minister to keep him reserved for the next election cycle, due to concerns about potential losses.
However, reports state that ministers must be new-generation individuals with knowledge and capability, and not associated with corruption, to rebrand and enhance the government’s image. The 'Anutin 2' government. This is to ensure it aligns with the will of the people, who overwhelmingly supported Bhumjaithai.