Anutin: Greeting Opposition Normal, 7M Tea Money Slip Fabricated
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Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the media on October 28, 2026, at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters. Regarding his greeting of opposition MPs during the House of Representatives session, he said it was routine because he had to walk through both sides to collect his voting card. "We all know each other when we are not on duty. Exchanging smiles and greetings does not mean we are not doing our jobs, nor does it mean I went to tell them to go easy or to negotiate the no-confidence debate," he said. He noted that he also paid respects to Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and Trang MP Chuan Leekpai, adding that failing to wai them would have drawn media questions.
Anutin also mentioned walking past a Chonburi MP from the People's Party who had previously raised the blue motorcycle vest issue, saying he listened just as he listens to the public, which demonstrates openness. He dismissed the idea that such interactions would sway opposition votes, stating each MP acts according to their duty.
Asked about his meeting with Bhumjaithai MP Suchada Sangthanthip, Anutin said everything must follow the law. MPs must submit asset declarations for scrutiny; any doubts should be referred to the relevant agencies. Questions about political party donations should go to the Election Commission, while politicians' assets fall under the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). He stressed that self-researched conclusions are not official.
When asked if the situation was exhausting, Anutin replied he was not tired because it did not concern him personally, but it was "la-hia-jai" (disappointing/annoying). He challenged reporters: "Do young people today know the word 'la-hia-jai'? It's like 'plea.' It should be a creative issue — asking what the people are suffering from, how relief is being provided, whether the PM has managed aid. That is the duty of those who care for the people."
Regarding the 7 million baht tea money slip, Anutin said he had to clarify because otherwise people would keep sharing it without benefit. He called it a positive development because the public now sees that the game has gone outside rules and decorum.
On the case of Chai Rat denying ownership of the "Goddam" page, Anutin said it is a police matter because police did not act on his orders. He stated that if he files a complaint, he would target those who shared the fake slip first. Chai Rat (Goddam) shared the fabricated 7 million baht slip, then deleted it after it was proven false and posted "Anutin you die," which constitutes a threat. Police are therefore pursuing that case, and Anutin reiterated he will take legal action against the sharers.
