Interior Minister Challenges Democrats to Sue Over Bangkok Flood Response
The user wants a short summary of the article, 1-2 sentences, 120-220 characters, max 240. Output English only, no quotes, no labels, no markdown. Just the summary text. Article: Interior Minister Jetsrestha Thairestha challenged Democrats
Interior Minister Jetsrestha Thairestha, in his capacity as supervisor of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), gave an interview at Government House on October 27, 2026 regarding the Democrat Party's plan to file an administrative lawsuit against the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the DDPM, and related state agencies for allegedly flawed water management in Bangkok. "Sue away. If they sue, we'll talk in court. If there are doubts, ask — no problem. I want to know too, but give me real data. Don't bring fabricated information. Speak up, ask away, I'm happy to answer — no need for court, anywhere. If it concerns the DDPM, I'm ready to respond," Jetsrestha said.
The minister added that since taking office, critics should point out exactly where he was negligent or where his efforts fell short, but not claim everything was poorly done because he believes they have worked beyond their capacity with full dedication. When reporters suggested DDPM assistance was too slow, Jetsrestha demanded specifics. Cited with the example of delayed water pump deployment, he insisted the pumps had no defects and challenged anyone to debate him on it. He stressed the DDPM has never refused a single request from any province — Bangkok asked, they gave everything; other provinces asked, they gave everything, often more than requested. He said he has clear evidence and is ready to present it today, believing everyone has performed their duties to the fullest.
On delayed warnings, Jetsrestha acknowledged the early warning system has gaps but said he can explain them all and has tried to improve coverage as best as possible. Asked if the situation is overly political, he laughed and said, "Let's just see." Regarding the upcoming no-confidence debate, he confirmed he is prepared with all data. On whether he can handle the Democrat Party, he replied he isn't fighting anyone — everyone has knowledge and ability — but he is fighting with facts. Bring the substance, let's talk. All our work has witnesses and evidence; it just depends on whether we speak or not.
