Phumtham Strikes Back at Thanathorn, Denies Conditions for Thaksin's Return

On February 17, 2026, Phumtham Wechayachai, a Pheu Thai Party leader, posted on Facebook criticizing Thanathorn Junsawang for distorting the truth about government formation. He firmly denied any negotiations or conditions related to Thaksin Shinawatra's return to Thailand, stating that the Pheu Thai Party voted to support the top-ranking party twice, fully respecting the people's voice. Phumtham accused Thanathorn of attempting to discredit Pheu Thai, arguing that the party acted based on political feasibility to prevent a political vacuum, not for any individual's benefit. He called for a new style of politics fought with truth and policy, expressing disappointment in Thanathorn's approach to political discourse.