PM Anutin Offers Opposition More No-Confidence Debate Time
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva's criticism by offering to cede government speaking time to the opposition during the upcoming no-confidence debate. Anutin urged constructive dialogue without personal attacks and emphasized that cabinet responses would be concise, calling on political leaders to set a positive example for younger generations.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul advised Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva to preserve his distinguished legacy after Abhisit accused the government of disrespecting parliament regarding the no-confidence debate time frame. Anutin stressed respect for everyone and called for constructive debate without personal attacks, confirming willingness to give government speaking time to the opposition. He ordered cabinet explanations to be concise and clear, not evasive or long-winded.
At 11:25 AM on October 22, 2026, at Government House, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview on the no-confidence debate time frame under Section 151 of the Constitution. He said coordination on the debate date was not yet complete, noting the opposition was meeting at 2:00 PM that day and still negotiating time allocation.
He stated that if the opposition wants more time, the cabinet would give up its own time to maximize the opposition's allocation, as he had ordered cabinet explanations to be concise, clear, and straightforward. Therefore, it was not disrespecting parliament as Abhisit Vejjajiva, Democrat Party leader and former prime minister, had claimed — which was impossible because he respects everyone, not just parliament. Explanations would be brief, not requiring lengthy speeches.
When questioned on any accusation, ministers would answer directly. They had said time used could be given to the opposition for more speaking time, and they were happy to do so. This demonstrates respect and cooperation.
"We must not speak aggressively or make sarcastic remarks. Building this culture is not good. We are all leaders and elders of the nation with distinguished legacies, and should preserve those legacies for people to remember and set examples. Today, as soon as someone speaks, there are jeers, sneers, and jibes. The younger generation watches, and we do not want the country to have this culture. Instead, we want everything spoken constructively. We have given cooperation in every way," the Prime Minister stated.
