'Wannor,' Chairman of the Prime Minister's Advisory Board, hopes to discuss the southern unrest to ease the situation. He believes talks remain effective, has not yet discussed the recent clashes in Narathiwat Province, and hints at reopening negotiation talks in late June.
On 2 June 2026, Mr. Wannur Muhamadnor Mata, Chairman of the Prachachart Party Advisory Board, who also serves as the Prime Minister's Advisory Chairman and advisor to the government's special representative team, spoke about the southern border situation. He referred to the recent clash that resulted in the death of a Narathiwat ranger, stating that the situation must be closely monitored as incidents have become more frequent. He emphasized the need for authorities, especially intelligence agencies, to determine the causes. The government is following developments and has established a committee to oversee and develop the area, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew. However, the committee has not yet met as it was recently formed and Mr. Sihasak has many foreign commitments. He expressed hope that once the committee convenes and sets strategic plans to resolve the southern border issues, the situation will improve but stressed close monitoring remains necessary.
When asked whether the ongoing situation still allows for useful dialogue, Mr. Wannur admitted that talks remain beneficial, but their success depends on cooperation and sincerity to ensure public safety. Without security, development is difficult. Therefore, the primary goal is to negotiate to build understanding and cooperation to enhance safety for the public and all parties beyond the current level. Personally, he believes the situation could improve if talks occur, which are expected in late June. A smaller preparatory committee will likely meet beforehand to set the negotiation framework.
Asked whether it is possible to confirm if the group involved is the separatist faction previously reported, Mr. Wannur said he prefers to wait for the committee appointed by the Prime Minister to meet, analyze the situation, and divide responsibilities first, given the increasing frequency of incidents. However, he believes that once negotiations start at various levels, the situation should begin to improve.