Bhumjaithai launched the "Thai Sang Thai-New Alternative" coalition supporting Anutin as prime minister, securing over 281 votes. Meanwhile, Chaiyachon revealed that the leaders of Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham have spoken, saying there is still opportunity and an official conclusion is awaited.
At 10:30 a.m. on 19 Feb 2026 GMT+7, at the Bhumjaithai party headquarters, small party leaders led by Mr. Rachen Trakulwiang, head of the New Alternative party, arrived along with Mr. Chawalit Vichayasuth, deputy head of Thai Sang Thai party, and Mr. Udomdej Rattanasateern, prospective party-list MP from Thai Sang Thai. They met with Mr. Songsak Thongsri, Bhumjaithai leader, and Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, party director, to discuss coalition government plans.
Then, Mr. Chaiyachon Chidchob, secretary of Bhumjaithai, and Ms. Nan Boonthida Somchai, party spokesperson, gave a press update on government formation. They stated that Mr. Songsak had contacted Thai Sang Thai and New Alternative parties to join the government and jointly proceed with selecting the prime minister.
Meanwhile, Mr. Udomdej said he was contacted by Mr. Songsak, with whom he is familiar through the Group of 16, and after discussing reasons and facts, they agreed to move forward in forming a government to address pressing issues such as economic challenges and border security. He emphasized the need for a strong government in Thailand. Given the election results, they are ready to support the party with the majority vote. This is why they attended today's press conference. Initial discussions have been held with senior party members, and further talks will continue.
Mr. Rachen stated that he respects the majority vote that won the election and the party with the most seats forming the government. Although the New Alternative party has only one seat, they are willing to follow the standard practice of voting for Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister in this round.
Regarding whether other small parties will join the government, the Bhumjaithai spokesperson said that press conferences will be scheduled regularly with one day’s notice, and another press conference is planned for tomorrow.
Then, the Bhumjaithai secretary commented on rumors about coalition talks with the Kla Tham party, saying the last brief discussion was with Mr. Phai Lik, Kla Tham party secretary, and they advised that party leaders should talk first. According to yesterday’s news, Anutin had preliminary talks with Ms. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Kla Tham party leader, but they are waiting for a conclusion. Meanwhile, Kla Tham will hold an executive and prospective MPs meeting this afternoon.
Regarding any conditions from Kla Tham, Mr. Chaiyachon said no party has set conditions yet and asked to wait for a conclusion. Asked if Kla Tham still has a chance to join the government with Bhumjaithai, he said everything is possible but requested waiting for further talks and final decisions.
The reporter noted that the government coalition currently has secured 281 votes, divided as follows:
Bhumjaithai Party: 193 votes
Pheu Thai Party: 74 votes
Economic Party: 3 votes
New Party: 1 vote
Ruamjai Thai Party: 1 vote
Thai Sap Thawee Party: 1 vote
Ruam Phalang Prachachon Party: 1 vote
Miti Mai Party: 1 vote
New Democracy Party: 1 vote
Pheu Chat Thai Party: 2 votes
New Alternative Party: 1 vote
Thai Sang Thai Party: 2 votes
As for Kla Tham party’s 58 votes, there is currently no clarity regarding their participation in the government.