Thaksin, Anutin, Paethongtarn, and Somchai joined the merit-making ceremony for Krieng Kalpintan, a leader of the Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai parties, attended by many. This was the first time former Prime Ministers Thaksin and Anutin met since Thaksin's release.
On 14 August 2026 at 18:30, at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters on Burapha Road, Ban Du, Ubon Ratchathani Province, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed royal patronage for the merit-making ceremony of Mr. Krieng Kalpintan, former Deputy Minister of Interior. The three-day ceremony was held from 13 to 15 August. On 14 August, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, presided over the ceremony. Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, and former Prime Minister Mr. Somchai Wongsawat also participated. Numerous ministers, Pheu Thai party leaders, and MPs from both Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai in the northeastern region attended, including Minister of Education Mr. Prasert Chanruangthong, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Mr. Poom Dhammawechachai, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Mr. Watcharapol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Education Mr. Akaran Kankitinan, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society Ms. Nan Buntida Somchai, and Transport Minister Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat. Many local residents from Ubon Ratchathani and nearby provinces also participated in large numbers.
Reporters noted that this meeting between Mr. Thaksin and Mr. Anutin was their first since Mr. Thaksin's release, during which they greeted and spoke with each other in a friendly manner.
