Songsak opens up about his role as Deputy Prime Minister, accepting the challenging task of managing the National Water Resources Office to resolve recurring flood and drought problems. He highlights his vision, "where there is water, there is money," and expresses confidence that the government will complete its full 4-year term.
On 8 April 2026, Mr. Songsak Thongsri, Deputy Prime Minister, spoke about his new responsibilities after being assigned to oversee the National Water Resources Office (NWRO), as well as the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. He acknowledged that the work is challenging because water is integral to Thai people's way of life. He views flood and drought issues as a matter of "mathematics," meaning managing surplus and deficit in balance. He questioned why areas prone to repeated flooding still face overlapping drought problems. He aims to address this issue concretely, believing that effective water management will increase farmers' income and reduce rural depopulation to big cities.
Regarding his move from Deputy Minister of the Interior to Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Songsak said he considers himself fortunate to work more closely with the Prime Minister, even though the new responsibilities require coordination with the Interior Ministry's apparatus. He also mentioned the idea of separating the Ministry of Sports from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, saying it is beneficial because the activities differ in nature. Currently, this is a concept under consideration, with an expected study period of about six months.
On the government's policy statement to Parliament on 9 April, Mr. Songsak affirmed he is not worried if the opposition conducts a no-confidence debate, viewing it as political color that makes Parliament more engaging and less dull. He is ready to listen to advice and criticism for improvement. Responding to reports of declining government popularity, he said it is too early to assess since the government has just begun its work. He concluded confidently that, with the current cabinet composition, the government led by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul will surely complete its full 4-year term.