Pakorn Nilprapunt revealed his reasons for accepting the deputy prime minister position in the "Anutin 2" cabinet. The Prime Minister invited him to help drive government work. He declared that he serves the country, not politics, is not affiliated with any party, and is not involved in the Senate rigging or Khao Kradong cases, which are matters for the justice system.
On 2 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Pakorn Nilprapunt, the incoming deputy prime minister, explained his decision to join the "Anutin 2" government. He said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul invited him to help with government work. Initially, Pakorn hesitated because he has been a civil servant for over 30 years, with 4 years remaining before retirement, and had served as Secretary-General of the Council of State for 6 years, a position without a fixed term. At first, he told the Prime Minister he wanted to assist only as Secretary-General, but the Prime Minister insisted he should actively lead and push forward many pending tasks beyond the Council of State's scope. After reflecting with his family, he agreed to take the role to advance the country's legal work himself.
Pakorn stated he made clear to Prime Minister Anutin that he would not join the Bhumjaithai Party and has not applied for party membership. Personally, he wants to avoid political entanglements and serve solely as a political official. "I want to be a political official, not a politician, and I do not belong to any party."
Pakorn said his main goals are to successfully develop economic cooperation (OECD) and digital government initiatives. Achieving these will help establish the country's legal infrastructure at international standards, gaining global recognition and placing Thailand on the world radar.
Regarding his legal work as deputy prime minister, Pakorn said he will continue as before, focusing on advancing ongoing projects and ensuring government laws align with international standards. He stressed laws should not be drafted or proposed arbitrarily, but he will do his best within his capacity.
Asked whether he would serve as a legal officer catering to political interests, Pakorn replied, "I serve only the nation. I do not serve politics because I am a politician. I am a political official—a type of civil servant appointed by politicians—who works to advance government efforts. I participate in policy and administrative direction rather than just following political orders. However, I confirm I am not a member of any political party and have no political directives. I remain myself."
Regarding cases such as the Senate rigging and Khao Kradong, or cases linked to the blue political faction, Pakorn said these are already in the justice system. The government cannot interfere in judicial processes. Even as a permanent civil servant, he never interfered in justice. He is straightforward: if a matter is before the court, one must await rulings. Giving incorrect statements could confuse society and mislead the public. Therefore, he will refrain from commenting on these issues. "My duties do not involve any legal cases."