The Prime Minister revealed that the proposal to reduce the diesel excise tax is currently being presented, affirming the use of all means to reduce the burden of the energy crisis. He countered accusations that the government favors big business, stating he fully understands how the situation has reached this point and declined to rate Bow Nattha, requesting that performance be the measure instead of opinions.
On 2 April 2026 at the Government House, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul commented on the case of reducing the diesel excise tax by 1 baht. He said the issue is now in the hands of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Anek Laothamatas. The government is exploring all channels to ease the public's burden while ensuring measures to prevent hoarding. Several factors are involved, including oil prices; when domestic oil is cheaper than in Malaysia, people might divert fuel to other areas. The government must find a balance.
When asked whether, in this crisis, a full government would need to issue an additional emergency loan decree, Anutin emphasized the need to use all possible methods but must consider financial discipline, state revenue, and citizens’ welfare and expenses, which involve many factors.
“Regarding accusations that the government favors big business, I affirm that the government exists because of the people. There is no way I would ever consider anyone more important than the people, nor protect anyone more than those who elected me. So today, let me be clear to avoid confusion in media narratives: the government fully acknowledges how it reached this point, who elected us, and who gave us the chance. Remember, I will never see anyone as more important than the people.” Anutin stated.
When asked how he feels about being criticized, Anutin said he listens to everything. While some criticisms are harsh, others offer insights and guidance. He reads them because, as Prime Minister and a public figure, he must be open to all critiques.
Asked if he feels stressed by such comments, the Prime Minister paused before replying that managing it is part of the job. He said he cannot claim to smile and feel nothing, but he also does not feel overwhelmed because it is the public’s right to express opinions. As mentioned, every critique and opinion often contains advice.
When asked how he encouraged Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn amid rumors urging people not to refuel at PT gas stations, Anutin said there was no need for encouragement. Those who reach such positions must focus solely on their work. He rejected the idea of seeking moral support. He added, “Oh, you want me to ask for support? I’d rather change than ask. There’s no need to seek encouragement. Just do the work correctly, fully, and for the people. No one needs to give support.”
Regarding whether Ms. Nattha Mahattana, or Bow, spokesperson of the Center for Economic Situation Administration (CESA), passes muster, the Prime Minister said the information she communicates to the public comes from CESA meetings. Being a spokesperson does not mean passing or failing; she does not create the information herself but reports what is discussed at the meetings to inform the public.
On managing public sentiment, especially criticisms about responses to questions, the Prime Minister noted that amid such situations, including a statement from the United States this morning, adjustments are necessary. He asked if the situation looks better now. As the affected party, the government must protect its interests as much as possible. Some tasks require working solely to let results speak for themselves. Some actions cannot be disclosed because they are official secrets, but he assured that the government is working fully and firmly. He affirmed, “No one in the Cabinet has a conflict of interest regarding the current oil situation. I sincerely confirm this. Please be assured there is none, and I do not say ‘if there were, they wouldn’t be kept’ because there is none, so there’s no need for such statements.”