Energy Activists Confront Prime Minister at Bangkok Exhibition
Energy activists confronted Prime Minister Anutin at a Bangkok energy industry exhibition on September 14, demanding the government halt new fossil fuel projects and address community concerns about pollution in Rayong.
On September 14, 2025, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as Interior Minister, opened and delivered remarks at the Gastech Bangkok 2026 Exhibition and Conference before touring exhibition booths. During his visit, representatives of communities affected by fossil fuel and energy industries, led by Greenpeace Thailand campaigner Manoon Wongmacho, staged a protest outside Bitec Bangkok to demand that the government reconsider its role as host sponsor for major fossil fuel energy industry groups. Protesters held signs reading "Rayong can't take it anymore" and "No new fossil gas—a few profit, the nation pays."
Some protesters entered the event venue holding signs with messages including "No new fossil gas, profits for few, burden for all" and "Stop Borphapo power plant." Group representatives held up an open letter and shouted "Prime Minister, please receive the villagers' letter." When the prime minister looked in their direction, officials attempted to redirect them to submit the letter to a government complaint center representative instead. The group insisted on waiting for the prime minister to speak with them, saying they had never received any response. The protesters then read their complaint letter aloud.
After the opening, security personnel escorted the prime minister out through a different exit to avoid direct confrontation with the protesters. He gave no statement to media, touring booths briefly before departing immediately. During a remark to ministers and staff, he said, "Thank you, I won't be here for another two or three days." When asked by journalists about orders given regarding energy matters, the prime minister did not respond. He also refused to comment on the Election Commission's planned statement regarding a Senate dissolution case, instead waving and leaving.
Journalists requested an interview, noting the prime minister would be away for several days. He replied simply that they would miss him. Security at the event was strict, involving Metropolitan Police Bureau Special Task Force Unit 5 personnel and civilian police conducting thorough searches at all entrances, with ministers accompanied by individual officers. Before the prime minister's arrival, protesters had hung a large banner reading "You gas deal our loss" at the Bitec entrance, which officials removed before his arrival.
