Prime Minister Anutin, known for his spiritual devotion, performed the sacred head-covering ritual with the revered Luang Pho Phra Sai statue, the spiritual symbol of Nong Khai city, praying for the nation’s peace and prosperity, and expressed hope to be able to answer reporters' questions.
On 2 Nov 2026 at 13:20, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul traveled to Wat Pho Chai, a royal temple in Nong Khai Province, to pay homage to Luang Pho Phra Sai, the sacred Buddha image revered as the guardian of Nong Khai. He was graciously received by Phra Thep Wachirakhun, Associate Professor Dr., the provincial ecclesiastical head and abbot of Wat Pho Chai. The Prime Minister and his delegation offered water libations and received protective blessings before presenting garlands on the Buddha’s altar. He then touched his forehead to the Buddha’s lap and back. The abbot chanted sacred scriptures, sprinkled holy water, and conducted the auspicious head-covering ritual with holy water.
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister and his team paid respects to Thao Wessuwan Jatumarachika, the guardian deity. When reporters asked what he prayed for during the water libation, Anutin replied that he hoped to be able to answer their questions. Asked about his wish during the head-covering ritual, he laughed and said that nowadays he simply prays for national peace and happiness because when the country is peaceful, Thai people will live happily and there is no need to ask for anything else.