Taking an auspicious moment, government spokesperson Ratchada entered Government House to pay respects to sacred entities. She revealed that the Prime Minister instructed officials to communicate fully and directly with the public without worrying about defending the Prime Minister. Attention is focused on appointing Lalida and Phatdarasmi as deputy spokespersons now.
At 08:19 on 7 April 2026 at Government House, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, brought garlands to pay respects at the spirit houses of the land and ancestral spirits within Government House for auspiciousness before officially beginning her duties.
Ms. Ratchada said she is aware of the challenges ahead at this time and understands the situation that communication from the government to the public is essential. Receiving this opportunity is a great honor. She will strive to communicate complete and straightforward information to the public as much as possible, to foster understanding and, hopefully, alleviate the public’s concerns.
Regarding the current oil price crisis, Ms. Ratchada said her role as spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office differs greatly from the past due to the situation and heightened expectations, as well as active social media. The work demands more. As spokesperson, her team and office must integrate efforts with ministry spokespeople and related agencies more closely. When issues arise, they will promptly clarify with accurate, complete, and swift information. This is a challenge requiring system and inter-agency coordination improvements.
Asked if, having previously served as deputy spokesperson, she plans to improve or do anything better than before, Ms. Ratchada said she understands the public’s feelings. Sometimes government communication is perceived as slow, especially in situations where people expect and want information. A delay of even 3-4 hours can feel like a whole day. She aims to address this issue effectively. She emphasized that by listening more to social media and employing AI, the government hears every public voice, and the Prime Minister is aware and concerned. They will focus on clarifying measures and improving communication where problems remain.
When asked if the Prime Minister gave any policy guidance, Ms. Ratchada said the Prime Minister briefly stated that in this time of crisis, communication is essential and that he understands all public sentiments. He emphasized that she should communicate comprehensively, reasonably, and directly without worrying about defending the Prime Minister or ministers. Spokespeople should convey information beneficial to the public.
Asked about responding to opposition criticism, especially politically, Ms. Ratchada said they do not view it as necessary to retaliate. If opposition points are based on inaccurate data or impractical perspectives, clarification will be provided. The goal is not to argue but to create accurate public awareness. The main duty is to provide complete, reasonable, and straightforward information while listening to feedback from MPs and the public.
Regarding rumors of the first Cabinet meeting on 11 April, Ms. Ratchada said they must await the parliament’s decision on the government policy address date. Originally set for 9-10 April, it may be shifted to 10-11 April, but confirmation is pending. The first Cabinet meeting will consider appointing political officials. On 6 April, the Prime Minister urged ministers to submit names once individuals are identified, emphasizing the need for ministers to have their teams and proper qualification checks. Deputy spokesperson positions will include representatives from the Pheu Thai Party, working as a team.
A reporter at Government House reported that following the special Cabinet meeting on 6 April, which appointed Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek as spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, two additional deputy spokespersons will be appointed after the government policy address. These will include quotas from the Bhumjaithai Party and the Pheu Thai Party. The Bhumjaithai Party will propose Ms. Lalida Pertwivatana, former deputy spokesperson in the Anutin 1 Cabinet, to continue as deputy spokesperson in the Anutin 2 Cabinet.
Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party will propose Lt. Col. Phatdarasmi Thongsaluyakorn, a Pheu Thai party list MP candidate, as deputy spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office under their quota.
