Yotsanan affirmed that Pheu Thai is not concerned by the Kla Tham party's merger with Bhumjaithai, pointing out there are no signs of a cabinet reshuffle. He urged focusing on delivering results and said whether the party stays or leaves should be decided by the public. He emphasized the party's stance in supporting a unified government.
At 14:15 on 21 October 2026 at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotsanan Wongwasi, a Pheu Thai leader, addressed rumors about Kla Tham merging with Bhumjaithai. Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, head of Bhumjaithai, has not clearly denied this. Asked if this might be pressure to keep Pheu Thai united in the no-confidence vote, Yotsanan said the focus must return to principles. He said talks with the prime minister highlighted that if the PM is debated concerning ministries under his charge, full preparation is needed. Pheu Thai will use its five ministries to demonstrate clear results to the public, showing genuine commitment. These five ministries work closely and cohesively with others, supporting the government since ministries are interconnected. He said all are preparing to ensure government unity.
When asked if Kla Tham's earlier clear intention to target the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives might cause disruption to Pheu Thai, Yotsanan said a recent meeting with various sectors emphasized using achievements and unified mechanisms to assure the public of continuous work. He added that many discussions have taken place and reiterated no signals of ministry changes have been received.
When pressed on whether this might become a political bargaining chip, Yotsanan said it is unlikely as he has not been approached about such matters. Laughing, he added that he knows his duty is to manage his ministry well. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives recently discussed many issues, and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is planning meetings on elderly affairs, which are progressing well. They are also working on Universal Design linked to tourism. The Ministry of Higher Education is progressing well, and the Ministry of Labour has passed several notable laws. He believes the public wants continuous work.
Regarding Associate Professor Yutthaporn Isarachai of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University stating that a Kla Tham and Bhumjaithai merger would leave Pheu Thai disadvantaged, Yotsanan said stable governance is crucial. He noted that whether to join a coalition or not is separate, as they are already in government and ministers who must work to their best. The public will decide whether they remain based on results. Currently, ministers are encouraged to show their achievements. Pheu Thai previously reported on the work of its five ministries over three months, and after six months, each minister has further reported on their progress. It is clear they work not alone but collaboratively with the public and government agencies in unity.
