Anutin Says Respectful Meeting With Thaksin, No Special Discussion
PM Anutin paid respects to Thaksin at a Buddhist memorial service in Ubon Ratchathani, saying they exchanged only greetings with no substantive discussion.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister gave an interview at 21:15 on 14 August 2025 following his role as chairman at a Buddhist memorial service for the late Kriang Kalptinun, former Deputy Interior Minister, held in Ubon Ratchathani province. The event brought together four prime ministers: Anutin Charnvirakul, Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and Somchai Wongsawat, a former prime minister. Before Thaksin departed, video footage showed Anutin making a respectful wai to Thaksin.
Anutin explained that he was obliged to wai Thaksin out of respect, as he had served as a minister in Thaksin's cabinet since 2004 and was the last minister to receive Thaksin's patronage. When asked what he discussed with Thaksin, Anutin said they did not discuss anything of substance, only exchanged greetings and personal inquiries. He also had the chance to meet with Paetongtarn and Somchai, both longtime acquaintances.
When asked if he was pleased to meet with all four prime ministers, Anutin said that the Pheu Thai party is now a coalition partner in government, and everyone is already well acquainted. Regarding how the meeting would smooth government operations, Anutin stated that operations have been running smoothly all along. The current cabinet includes Yossanan as Deputy Prime Minister and Pheu Thai cluster head, along with Suriya Juengrungruangkit, Julpan Amorwiwattana, and Prasert Chantharangsul, all working well together.