PM Anutin Explains Thaksin Meeting, Rejects New Coalition Partners
PM Anutin dismissed speculation about coalition changes and defended his recent encounter with ex-PM Thaksin at a funeral as routine respect-showing among government allies. He emphasized the government's focus on delivering policies like t
At 14:00 on August 15, 2025, at Bangkok Railway Station, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Chaiyawongse, speaking as leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed his encounter with former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and former PM Somchai Wongsawat at the funeral of Kriang Kalpitinant, a former deputy interior minister.
"We met at the funeral of someone we respect," Anutin said. "This wasn't a social gathering. Exchanging greetings and showing respect is normal."
When asked if he would meet Thaksin again, Anutin said he has remained in contact with Thaksin, Somchai, and Paetongtarn since knowing them. "Why wouldn't we meet? We're in the same government. There's no reason not to."
On the political adage that there are no permanent allies or enemies, Anutin said that if aligned goals—benefiting the people and strengthening the nation—are shared, personal grievances should take a back seat.
Regarding suggestions to bring new parties into the coalition, Anutin brushed the question aside with "Has that ever happened?"
When pressed on talk that some parties are waiting to switch sides, Anutin noted that all parties naturally want to govern. "But once elections are held and a government is formed, everyone must do their job fully—the opposition must oversee, and the government must work hard."
Asked if he is confident the government will last the full four years, Anutin laughed and replied, "We must stay the course if we can, to benefit the country and people."
He expressed concern that government policies achieve their targets. He noted that the popular 60-40 Thai Help Thai Plus scheme has earned public approval and boosted economic figures, which he hopes will continue improving.
When told that people want Thai Help Thai Plus to continue in phases, Anutin said he hears all feedback but emphasized the need to consider methods, budgets, and maximum benefit. "This isn't welfare populism," he clarified. "It's about giving people a stake in national development and lifting the economy."
