PM Dismisses Opposition, Reveals Speculative Land Purchases Ahead of Land Bridge Project, Says 'Don't Jump the Gun'

At 10:30 a.m. on May 7, 2025, at Royal Thai Air Force Base 6 in Don Muang, Prime Minister Anun Chaiyanupong and Interior Minister addressed opposition criticism of the Land Bridge project, noting that speculators are buying land ahead of the initiative. The government, he said, is currently focused on helping citizens and alleviating suffering. He cautioned against premature judgment, noting the project has not yet begun and circumstances have changed since previous studies were conducted. Thailand must position itself as a regional center capable of self-reliance in economic development and logistics, standing firm regardless of regional conflicts, he explained. When asked about rumors of 99-year land leases to foreign investors, the PM said the government does not heed rumors and the matter concerns investment in the Land Bridge project specifically. He clarified that the project remains in the study phase, with a committee headed by Deputy PM Ekniti Nitithanpracha and Finance Minister conducting current analysis. When questioned whether the opposition's early criticism would hinder the project, he stated everything depends on the committee's findings. Regarding public input, Anun said the government must listen to the people and has instructed the committee to include representatives from affected communities. When asked if he felt discouraged by scrutiny and attacks, the PM responded humorously that there is no reason to back down, noting he is Chinese and 'backing down is bad luck'—a shovel-backed person eats every day anyway. Regarding a constitutional amendment bill that was rejected citing urgent matters, the PM declined to comment, glanced at his watch, announced 'final statement,' and departed for his flight to the Philippines.