Phiphat emphasized that the Bhumjaithai Party is not involved in the Senate vote-rigging case and urged against linking it as part of anyone’s network, noting that politicians are all friends. He pointed out it is the opposition’s right to continue the no-confidence debate.
At 09:50 on 15 Sep 2026 at the Government House, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, spoke before chairing the Cabinet meeting about the Election Commission's decision not to indict Bhumjaithai Party executives in the Senate vote-rigging case. He declined to give an interview, saying the party was not involved. When pressed about attempts to link individuals in the indictment list to him, Phiphat stressed he had no connection to the Senate matter. He said the Prime Minister has consistently stated that Bhumjaithai is not involved and cannot interfere with the Senate, as Senators are not affiliated with political parties. Regarding claims about political bases and networks, he acknowledged that as politicians they naturally know each other but denied any support or assistance in the process.
When asked if he felt relieved since the opposition had previously referenced the matter multiple times, Phiphat said the opposition would likely continue but it is their right; the party cannot interfere. Asked if he had spoken with Worasilp Liangprasit, Deputy Minister of Interior, because the latter’s father, Somkiat Liangprasit, was indicted by the Election Commission in the vote-rigging case, Phiphat said he had not met him yet but expected to talk soon.
Asked whether he had discussed the matter with Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Phiphat said no, as Anutin was on official duty as a minister without portfolio in Vietnam.
When asked if he was concerned about the opposition's plan to use the Senate vote-rigging case in a no-confidence debate, Phiphat said he was not worried and that they would respond with the facts. Asked if the government would proceed smoothly after this issue, Phiphat replied that question should be directed to the Prime Minister.