Anutin boasts that the government is united as one people, saying his meeting with former Prime Minister Thaksin at a funeral to exchange respects was normal. Especially since they are part of the same government, why wouldn’t they meet?
At 2:00 p.m. on 15 Aug 2026 at Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong), Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, was interviewed about opposition leader Natthapong Ruangpanyawut of the Prachachon Party announcing a planned no-confidence debate in the next parliamentary session. Asked if he was worried, Anutin replied by asking if this was news, saying it’s already known that the opposition has the right to submit a no-confidence motion once per session. When asked if coalition parties needed to discuss, Anutin said there are currently no coalition parties, only the government of the people, and they talk almost daily. Now they work unitedly. Everyone knows that when parliament opens on 25 Aug, there will be the draft 2027 annual budget bill and a loan decree to be presented. It's the duty of MPs to scrutinize and act accordingly.
Denies Senate rigging case involves the government.
When asked if he was preparing for the debate, Anutin said they work daily and can answer questions anytime without waiting for a no-confidence session, as he was answering reporters now. On whether the vote will pass, he said confidence comes from doing what is lawful and benefits the country and people. Asked about opposition leader Natthapong mentioning the Senate rigging case, Anutin said it’s unrelated to the government or any political party. The Senate selection is per constitutional provisions. On opposition spreading information on social media, Anutin said that’s why the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society urges caution about believing everything online, recommending scrutiny and consideration. Asked if any opposition defectors might vote for the government, Anutin said he does not think so; the government’s votes are strong and united.
Stresses focusing on benefits for the people regardless of friend or foe.
Asked about attending the funeral of former Deputy Interior Minister Kriang Kalptinan and meeting Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and former Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, Anutin said they met at a funeral for someone they respected, not in a jovial or festive atmosphere. It was normal to exchange respects. Asked if there would be other meetings with Thaksin, Anutin said he has known Thaksin, Somchai, and Paetongtarn for a long time and has met them continuously. He said it shouldn’t be seen as something they cannot discuss. Especially since they are now part of the same government, why wouldn’t they meet if they want to? On whether the saying “no permanent friends or foes in politics” still applies, Anutin said regardless of friend or foe, if they share goals that benefit the people and nation, strengthen the country, and promote prosperity, personal issues should be put aside for the country and people’s benefit.
Asked if the government coalition is so strong that other parties need not be invited to join, Anutin replied, “Has that ever been an issue?” When pressed about speculation that some parties want to join and wait for a power shift, Anutin said every party wants to be in government because they can fully implement their work for the people. But once the government is formed after elections, all sides must perform their roles fully—the opposition must thoroughly check the government, and the government must work hard; that’s how it goes. Asked if he is confident the government will last four years, Anutin laughed and said they must last if they can, to benefit the country and people. Asked if he is not worried politically, Anutin said the real concern is whether their policies will be popular or effective. The government’s 60-40 Thai Chua Thai Plus project has been well received, improving various figures. He hears all opinions about continuing the program, but they must consider methods and budget for maximum benefit. This is not welfare or populism but enabling people to participate in national development and economic upliftment.