Anutin declared the count has not even started, so how could a government formation deal be closed? He asked to wait until the situation stabilizes, then the process will quickly conclude. He said there is no blocking of the Democrat Party or Kla Tham party, and pointed out that election nullification is the Election Commission's responsibility. He expressed confidence in the Commission’s sincere work and that no one knows who voted for whom.
At 21:22 on 21 Feb 2026 in Phetchaburi province, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, as leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, spoke about progress in forming a government following reports of securing 300 votes. He said no deal has opened yet, so how could it be closed? The situation remains the same; he asked to wait for the Election Commission (EC) to officially certify election results.
When asked if, after the EC’s certification, he would announce which parties would join the government, Anutin said it will follow the proper procedures in order. He does not know what other parties think, but Bhumjaithai wants clear action and discussions must wait until the situation is settled and stable.
“Reporters should remember we have been in politics for 20-30 years and have gone through elections. Since the 2017 constitution, this is the third election. We know the EC has never certified results in less than a month, and the law allows up to two months. So, we won’t rush or act before official certification. If we do, we cannot speak confidently. Let’s wait for clarity before speaking prematurely. Then it will be a quick, decisive move.”
Asked if he worries this election might be annulled, Anutin said that is not the concern of political parties but of the EC. He trusts the EC works with sincere intent and believes no one can observe or control how votes were cast.
Regarding rumors of a proposal to vote for the prime minister before dividing ministries, Anutin said that since official certification is not yet known, parties or those in contact have agreed to vote for the prime minister first, then the parliamentary speaker.
On parties waiting for Bhumjaithai to contact them about joining the government and then expressing frustration verbally, Anutin said this reveals the feelings of those parties. For now, it’s better to stay calm. The count hasn’t even started. Tomorrow, there will be recounts and some re-elections in certain areas. Acting before the EC is official would be disrespectful.
Asked if the Democrat Party is in line for government talks, Anutin said there is no blocking until official election results are known. He emphasized they are still within legal time. Once the EC certifies results clearly, it will not be long. The public need not worry. The current government continues normally, and the election results show that the coalition leaders have a significant number of seats and confidence, especially in actions benefiting the people. Given public trust in them, they are more confident to decide, always prioritizing public and national benefit, with personal or factional interests last.
Asked about Kla Tham party’s current reaction, Anutin said there is nothing new. He recently spoke with Kla Tham’s leader in Songkhla province.