Anutin accepts the drop in poll ratings and stresses the need for urgent correction, believing many issues might have been poorly communicated. He warns that 'forgetful ministers' who work but fail to communicate risk removal from the cabinet.
On 6 July 2026, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke about the NIDA poll showing a decline in his and the Bhumjaithai Party's support. He said polls act like mirrors reflecting oneself. He thanked pollsters and respondents, saying that since popularity has decreased from 26% to 21%, there must be issues to fix. He noted his own rise from 2% support to 21% and emphasized the need to prevent falling back to 2%, so efforts must focus on improvement. The poll results don’t suggest competing with others but highlight the 5% drop that needs addressing.
Regarding the 5% drop, Anutin said it likely stems from unclear or insufficient communication. He believes the public may not always hold grievances but that positive achievements have not been adequately promoted. He noted complaints about this, citing GDP growth, increased foreign investment, a stable stock market above 1,600 points, improved national credit ratings, and broad international support for Thailand’s OECD accession. He emphasized that many countries believe Thailand has a bright future as a regional and global economic hub. He added that the government is working to eliminate harmful factors hindering progress and focus on actions benefiting the country’s economy.
When asked about changing communication strategies with the public, Anutin admitted communication has been weak and must improve. He said he regularly meets with nearly all ministers and warned that if anyone remains a 'forgetful minister,' the Prime Minister himself may forget them, implying dismissal from the cabinet. Decisions about cabinet changes must be explained clearly, not made arbitrarily. Since this cabinet has only worked two months, explanations about decisions and personnel changes must be thorough.
When asked if he has already warned the 'forgetful' ministers, Anutin confirmed he began cautioning them two weeks ago and will continue, especially after the poll results. Although some dismiss polls as routine, he pays attention to all polls, even local ones, because they reflect public engagement and support. He stressed that communication is not only with the public but also within his team, recognizing the need for change. He pointed out that Bhumjaithai ministers number 27, so if each communicated regularly, there would be many news stories. He questioned why some ministers do not share news but only communicate with him. Everyone works, but if they don’t communicate, they must improve.
Asked how long it will take to evaluate this cabinet, Anutin replied it won’t be long, as there are established practices and he believes things will improve. He reaffirmed that Bhumjaithai ministers actively work but must also communicate. Being knowledgeable and skilled is not enough if they do not speak out or communicate effectively. Doing good work alone without communication is insufficient.
Asked if he feels like he speaks alone on many issues, Anutin said, "Reporters often ask only me and not other ministers. I feel for my colleagues like family. Sometimes I avoid reporters and quietly reflect, feeling I haven’t been kind to my team. I don’t want that, but for economic matters, reporters should ask the finance or commerce ministers. Those ministers haven't socialized with reporters like I have. We need to build better familiarity among them."
Regarding Bhumjaithai’s parliamentary committee chairs, Anutin said work has become more active, and these members have opportunities to become ministers. He affirmed all party members have equal rights to show their capabilities and performance. When asked about criteria for cabinet reshuffles, he said performance, ability, and dedication are key. Asked if any ministers have been warned, he declined to specify, saying he gives private warnings in his office.