Anutin Denies Controlling Senate Amid Political Criticism
Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul denied controlling the Senate, stating the government has no authority to dictate senators' actions under constitutional separation of powers.
On November 7, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the political criticism surrounding the "blue swallows red" narrative during his NBT television program "Talk with PM Anutin," which airs Saturdays at 9:05 AM. He dismissed the phrase as rhetoric used to attack the government and affirmed that he cannot control Senate members or dictate legislative actions.
Anutin explained that the Senate is part of the legislative branch while the government is the executive branch, with separate duties and powers under the Constitution. The government has no authority to order senators to support laws, individuals, or decisions according to executive wishes. He countered that if the government truly controlled the Senate, why would many senators, including the Senate President, still criticize the administration? He emphasized that knowing many political figures does not mean he can command or dictate their positions.
"My government views the Senate as a sovereign power within the legislative branch, with no involvement in setting direction. I have never told senators to pass this law or that, to support this person or that. I have never seen myself able to do so even once," Anutin stated.
He added that relations between the government and coalition MPs are normal, as the government relies on a parliamentary majority to advance its elected policies. He speaks with MPs from both government and opposition sides, accepting proposals beneficial to the public regardless of origin.
Anutin cited the example of People's Party MPs proposing to revert motorbike taxi jackets in Chon Buri from blue back to orange for better visibility and safety. Upon receiving the information, he ordered relevant agencies to amend the rule immediately, stressing that safety should not be tied to political colors.
He also mentioned a People's Party proposal to recognize snooker and billiards as sports and ease restrictions under gambling laws. The government is ready to consider support if the legislation covers the content and benefits Thai athlete development.
Regarding the no-confidence debate, Anutin said the government is prepared for the scrutiny process and is not delaying. Previously, a schedule was set for all ministers to clear duties from October 26-30 to prepare for the debate, but the date remains unresolved due to negotiations over the time framework between government and opposition.
Anutin stated the debate should focus on substance, evidence, and facts rather than time-wrangling. If there is evidence that the government or ministers committed wrongdoing causing real damage to the country, it should not take many hours — verifiable facts must be presented to the public.
He emphasized that all ministers must be ready to explain, not just those named in the censure motion, because if their responsible work is questioned, they have a duty to answer to parliament. The explanation aims not only for MPs to hear but to answer the entire nation.
"I never believed a majority would save the government. I have informed all ministers that only facts and their own performance will save them, save the government," Anutin concluded.
