Phiphat lamented, "Let me go," emphasizing he has spoken with the Prime Minister to request not to oversee the Ministry of Energy, fearing accusations linking him to family business.
On 1 April 2026, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, gave an interview on television. The program was "Inside Thailand". Regarding the wave of boycotting his family's energy business (PT gas stations), he said the public’s feelings or opinions cannot be blamed, but personally he believes the matters should be separated and considered based on behavior. He resigned from the family business in 2003 and has never held any position at PT. Over 20 years, he only visits once yearly on the company’s anniversary in March.
Phiphat emphasized that PT’s decisions are made by its board and executives. Importantly, PT is a public company, so interference or control is not easy as the board exists independently. There is no need to listen to him as just one shareholder. While acknowledging PT is a family business, he asked to wait for proof from first-quarter financial results due mid-May before assuming any oil price manipulation.
Phiphat said that currently, any explanations might be futile. He affirmed his integrity, saying he never leaked government secrets to the board or family members about daily oil price changes. The facts will become clear later; he asked to wait for that time.
When asked if he would serve as director of the Energy Management Center (EMC) in the new government, Phiphat said he would do his best if the Prime Minister assigned him, given some knowledge in energy. However, his expertise in refinery technology is limited to trading, without direct refinery experience. If a new Energy Minister is appointed and someone else assigned, he is ready to step back and support.
Asked if he would remain Deputy Prime Minister overseeing the Ministry of Energy under Minister Eknat Promphan, Phiphat said it is unclear as the Prime Minister has not divided responsibilities yet. He acknowledged the cabinet includes many professionals, all capable.
Phiphat added he plans to discuss directly with the Prime Minister that if society is concerned and does not want him overseeing the Ministry of Energy, he might withdraw, saying, "Stop it." If society does not accept him, he might support other ministries instead, as more experts are available and the Prime Minister could appoint specialized advisors to assist.
Regarding the windfall tax on refineries, Phiphat said he had twice proposed to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas that if such a tax is imposed, measures to compensate refineries in case of losses must be carefully considered.
At the end, Phiphat stressed he does not seek to be director of the EMC but ultimately must discuss with the Prime Minister. If a qualified person is available, then "let me go."