The Prime Minister dismissed rumors, declaring that if Supachai is replaced, then Anutin must also be replaced, pointing out she is a pillar of the government because he invited her to join since the first administration he led.
At 12:40 p.m. on 22 Oct 2026 at the Thai Khu Fah Building, Government House, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed rumors about replacing Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Sutthumpan. He said, “If Supachai is to be replaced, then replace me too, so you don’t have to ask again.” He told the media such questions were inappropriate, recalling his experience as a former deputy minister. No matter how strong someone is, suddenly hearing media say a reshuffle is certain is unfair. Everyone is seen as a hard worker. Supachai is a key figure, a pillar of my government. I asked her to help from the first administration and asked her to hold the dual roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister in the second administration to oversee marketing, commerce, and the country’s industrial economy.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Supachai did not ask to stay in her position; he invited her to serve. Therefore, if Supachai is to be replaced, then the Prime Minister must be replaced as well. When asked whether the rumors constitute fake news, he said he had already responded fully. Regarding whether Supachai had inquired about the rumors, the Prime Minister said senior officials do not ask; they have confidence in themselves.