Red Shirt supporters submitted a letter to the Pheu Thai Party expressing support for joining a coalition government with Bhumjaithai. They demanded a sincere oath to amend the constitution. Prasert asserted that talks about dividing ministerial seats have not yet occurred, and that Yotsanan will decide independently whether to accept a ministerial role.
On 19 February 2026 at 10:30 a.m., at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters, a group of Red Shirt activists from the Nation for Democracy and Beloved People movement gathered to show their support and submit proposals to encourage Pheu Thai to join the government. Prasert Chantraruangthong, Secretary-General of Pheu Thai, received the letter. The Red Shirt crowd chanted “LET IT BE, let it be” while presenting a red envelope containing messages of encouragement for Pheu Thai to Prasert. A representative read a statement supporting Pheu Thai’s participation in government with three demands: 1. Pheu Thai should invite Bhumjaithai and other coalition parties to sign a pledge demonstrating sincere commitment to amend the constitution, avoiding the feared “Blue Constitution” version; 2. Pheu Thai must prioritize public welfare and protect the common good, following the party’s flagship policies such as 30-baht universal healthcare, 20-baht train fares across all lines, and agricultural debt relief; 3. Pheu Thai should set an example in the new government by ensuring transparency, reducing corruption, protecting public interests, and strictly enforcing laws without discrimination, citing the example of Khao Kradong land disputes.
Prasert Chantraruangthong, Pheu Thai’s Secretary-General, said the party accepts the three conditions and informed the Red Shirt supporters accordingly. He confirmed that Pheu Thai has been invited to join the government and that meetings are already scheduled; the party did not join without prior arrangements. Regarding comments by Chaiyachon Chidchob, Secretary-General of Bhumjaithai, that Pheu Thai had requested coalition talks, Prasert said no such discussions have taken place. Looking ahead, he declined to elaborate further. When asked about rumors that Pheu Thai secured five ministerial portfolios, Prasert said the discussions did not specify any ministries but focused on the history of past coalition governments, including campaign tensions, which are normal. After the election, the parties have forgiven each other, and there have been no talks about dividing ministerial posts. Regarding reports that Pheu Thai would primarily receive social ministries, he confirmed no such discussions have occurred. The matter of economic ministries, previously mentioned by Bhumjaithai, is up to the main coalition party.
When asked about rumors that Yotsanan Wongsawat, Pheu Thai’s prime minister candidate, would decline a ministerial position, Prasert said that question should be directed to Yotsanan himself. As the top party-list MP, Yotsanan can work in both legislative and executive roles. Yotsanan has affirmed he will continue political work, but whether he will serve in parliament, the executive branch, or work within the party depends on his decision. There is no scheduled meeting yet for further talks with Bhumjaithai.
