PM Denies Political Motive in Muay Thai Outing With Srettha
PM Anutin attended a muay thai event with former PM Srettha on August 8, insisting the outing had no political motive and was merely a social visit to observe the sport's evolution as a tourism and cultural attraction.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed reporters on August 11, 2025 at Government House regarding his attendance at Rajadamnern Stadium on August 8 alongside former PM Srettha Thavisin. He stressed there was no political discussion during the outing, which he characterized as an opportunity to observe how muay thai has evolved from purely gambling-focused entertainment into a soft power attraction and showcase of Thai art for tourists. Anutin praised the improved atmosphere and the high attendance of genuine foreign tourists, noting it demonstrates positive changes that could boost tourism to Thailand.
The PM indicated that event organizers have proposed expanding similar muay thai events to major tourist destinations including Phuket, Pattaya, Chonburi, and Chiang Mai, contingent on support from tourism and sports authorities—a proposal he said he welcomed. When asked whether the outing related to the Monaco Declaration, he dismissed the question with humor. Anutin emphasized that he and Srettha have known each other since their days studying abroad together and have maintained a longstanding personal relationship, stressing that the muay thai event was simply a social gathering with no political dimensions whatsoever.
