The Democrat Party's deputy spokesperson rebutted Thanakorn, stating that visiting the southern provinces to quell unrest is pointless without clear policies. He revealed that Abhisit is preparing to submit a live parliamentary question and reminded the Prime Minister to attend and provide answers.
On 24 August 2026, Mr. Natthakan Chuchana, deputy spokesperson of the Democrat Party, commented on remarks by Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, a party-list MP from the Bhumjaithai Party, who criticized Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, concerning his critique of the government's management of the situation in the southern border provinces by Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Mr. Natthakan stated that Minister Anutin's visits to the three southern border provinces are positive, and that every prime minister before has also visited these areas. While such visits are important, having clear policies is even more crucial. Visiting without understanding the problems or having clear policy directions is futile. The Democrat Party, which cares deeply about and is closely connected to the region, has been pushing the government to clarify its approach to reduce losses and prevent potential future violence.
The deputy spokesperson further noted that the government's policy statement to address issues by adopting the royal initiative of “Understanding, Access, Development” lacks sufficient clarity. Previously, Mr. Chuan Leekpai had submitted a parliamentary question to the Prime Minister asking for elaboration on this policy, requesting a response to be published in the Royal Gazette; however, no answer has been received to date.
"As violence in the area shows a significant upward trend, Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, intends to submit a live parliamentary question to the Prime Minister. This is a normal democratic parliamentary process whereby the legislature holds the executive accountable. Last week, the Prime Minister stated in an interview that he is ready to answer all questions as he works daily. Therefore, I would like to ask Mr. Thanakorn to remind the Prime Minister not to have a short memory. When Mr. Abhisit submits his question, Minister Anutin should also kindly attend to respond."