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Anutin Says Constitutional Amendment Is Not a Policy but a Peoples Mandate Oil Price Cut Is Not a Songkran Gift

Politic11 Apr 2026 01:09 GMT+7

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Anutin Says Constitutional Amendment Is Not a Policy but a Peoples Mandate Oil Price Cut Is Not a Songkran Gift

The Prime Minister said the 6 baht reduction in oil prices is the government's responsibility, not a Songkran gift. He emphasized that constitutional amendment is not a policy but a mandate from the people, ordering action through parliamentary mechanisms. He vowed to completely suppress violence and announced his visit to the South on 17 April to personally follow up on the shooting case of MP Kamolsak.


At 22:37 on 10 Apr 2026 at the Parliament Building, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, gave an interview after completing the government's policy statement to Parliament. He said, "It's good. We have listened to every point. I personally took notes on nearly every issue, including all ministers, especially regarding debates, suggestions, and recommendations. Even proposals not included in the policy, if found beneficial upon joint consideration, we will implement. I thank the members of Parliament. Over the past two days, we received comprehensive information. Wherever useful, we will put it into practice."


When asked if any suggestions would be brought to the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, Anutin said the meeting will focus on helping the people as many have suggested. But we must remember tomorrow is the first day this government will fully govern. Some issues carried over from the previous government, which are policies binding future governments and cannot be executed now, we must wait.


When asked if there would be any measures offered as gifts to the public during the Songkran festival, the Prime Minister said, "Everything we do is for the people every day. It is not a gift but the government's duty. We do not do it to please the people but to help them."


When asked again if the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee (OFMC) announcement tomorrow to cut diesel and all types of gasoline prices by up to 6 baht is a Songkran gift, the Prime Minister replied, "It is not a gift; it is a duty and a responsibility of every Cabinet member. We are here because of the people; there is no other factor to consider, and we will not let the people down."


Constitutional amendment is not a policy but a people's mandate, ordering action through parliamentary mechanisms.

Anutin also addressed opposition party debates, noting that constitutional amendment was not included in the government's policy statement to Parliament and was asked how the issue would proceed. The Prime Minister responded, "Where is it not stated? The constitutional amendment is even more than a policy because it passed the referendum on 8 February, with an overwhelming public mandate. This is not a policy but a people's order that we must implement."


However, regarding the constitutional amendment process, the Constitutional Court has already ruled that it must begin through parliamentary procedures, with the government facilitating in all aspects. Today, the government is aware that the referendum approved constitutional amendment and drafting a new version.

When asked whether the draft pending in the previous House of Representatives will be used or if the Cabinet will propose a new one, the Prime Minister said to start with the parliamentary process.

He vowed to completely suppress violence and announced his visit to the South on 17 April to personally follow up on the shooting case of MP Kamolsak.


Anutin also spoke about his visit to Narathiwat Province on 17 April, saying he will go to follow up and support MP Kamolsak Liwamo, Narathiwat MP from the Prachachart Party, regarding the assassination attempt. The case is being expedited through the Royal Thai Police and the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC).


"An MP is still not safe; that is unacceptable. Even experienced MPs face this. This country cannot solve problems by killing and injuring each other. I must completely suppress this violence. Such attacks never end; everyone has parties, groups, and networks. You see, I have not relaxed on gun control. Even after three tough years, shooters still exist. We must act decisively and firmly. Those who commit offenses will face consequences," Anutin said.


When asked if he was worried about interference in the case, Anutin said the police and relevant agencies must handle this matter thoroughly. He places great importance on this. MP Kamolsak is now in Parliament with them. Yesterday, he had a conversation and received much information, which he has passed on to the Royal Thai Police to fully investigate.


Regarding military officials and ISOC, Anutin said he has sent a letter to the ISOC secretary-general. As ISOC director, he can give direct orders. The use of ISOC vehicles is under investigation, and those who approved must be held accountable. However, those who committed the attacks are even more at fault. They must be prosecuted, arrested, and suppressed. All leads will be pursued, with the police following their procedures.