Chaiyachonok confirmed he has not set any conditions for parties to vote for the prime minister before forming the government but is open to all parties expressing support for Anutin. He reiterated his party's original stance to wait for the Election Commission's certification and noted that ultimately, the performance of whoever sits as Minister of Agriculture will be the measure. He added that, in his view, politics has never been sweet.
At 10:30 a.m. on 20 Feb 2026 at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters, Chaiyachonok Chidchob, party secretary-general, was asked whether a delay in the government formation timeline would slow the party's progress. He said that operationally, the party is still active; all ministers in the caretaker government continue working. Though plans might be affected in terms of agility, they have already gathered information and prepared plans.
When pressed on whether delays would cause economic targets to be missed, Chaiyachonok said it is possible. GDP growth is projected at 2.5%, with long-term plans already increased. He acknowledged potential impacts but emphasized everyone must abide by election result certification rules. Regarding economic recovery targets exceeding 3% growth next year, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Akniti Nitithanprapas, he said that under normal conditions it wouldn't be difficult. However, given the current global situation, they will try their best. He believes the management team has clear goals and plans to implement immediately after government formation, including the 'Half-Half Plus' project, new registrations for state welfare cards, and legal reforms involving independent lawyers and academics. If the plan proceeds, the economy could significantly recover within two years.
When asked about the unresolved position of the Kla Party (Kla), Chaiyachonok said their stance remains to wait for official confirmation from the Election Commission. Until then, all parties are welcome to express their positions. Regarding Kla party secretary-general Phai Lik's statement that no country votes for a prime minister before discussing government formation, Chaiyachonok clarified that they never demanded a pre-vote. Instead, they are open to all parties expressing their intention to support Anutin, without proposing any offers to any party.
Asked about Army Officer Thammanat Prompao, Kla Party advisory chairman, saying he is not attached to the Ministry of Agriculture but that the ministry's work is difficult—not done in an air-conditioned room—Chaiyachonok said every ministry has challenges, and leaders have different abilities and work styles. Ultimately, performance is what matters, not who is right or wrong in approach. Since he has no personal experience in the Ministry of Agriculture, he cannot comment on Thammanat's remarks and prefers to wait to see who will take the position.
Regarding whether the relationship between Bhumjaithai and the Kla Party remains sweet or has turned sour, Chaiyachonok laughed and said, “I think it’s been moderate all along. For me, politics has never been sweet.”
When asked if Bhumjaithai would be concerned about managing the Ministry of Agriculture without the Kla Party, including fears that civil servants might not cooperate with policies, Chaiyachonok said he is not worried. Having served as Minister of Digital Economy and Society, he understands that government transitions can be challenging. However, with good intentions and commitment to work for the people cooperatively, success is possible. Time will be the test. He believes the Ministry of Agriculture will be similar; newcomers must understand work processes, bureaucracy, and projects. Anyone qualified to be minister can address the issues.
After the press conference, when asked about Army Officer Thammanat's claim that the success in rice sales was due to his meeting in China, not the Ministry of Commerce, Chaiyachonok said he did not know the details but confirmed Thammanat did visit the People's Republic of China. He noted that it might have been a joint meeting, as ministries are interconnected. He sees the achievement as a government effort, not attributable to one person, but acknowledged the vision and capability of Commerce Minister Supachai Suthamphan, which helped increase Thailand's rice sales.
Asked if Thammanat's statement was an attempt to stake a claim on the Ministry of Agriculture, Chaiyachonok did not answer the question and smiled.