Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed rumors concerning a potential reshuffle of the "Minister of Interior 1-Bhumjaithai" chairs, emphasizing that any signals of a cabinet reshuffle have not been communicated to coalition party leaders.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin expressed confusion over the media's portrayal of a potential reshuffle, asserting that Prime Minister Settha Thavisin has never mentioned such plans.
Anutin, addressing the speculation that the Pheu Thai Party might reclaim the Ministry of Interior, stated he saw these reports in the newspapers but remains unworried, highlighting the coalition nature of the government. He reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party, with its 71 MPs, has supported two prime ministers from the Pheu Thai Party, who have been instrumental in forming the government. Anutin affirmed the unity and cooperative work between the coalition parties, maintaining that there have been no internal issues and that the Prime Minister's directives are consistently followed.
In response to queries about the impact of these rumors on the Interior Ministry and the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin stated that the reports require significant effort to generate and questioned their necessity, emphasizing the harmonious working relationship within the government. He cited the example of the State Audit Office building collapse, where the Interior Ministry promptly addressed the situation, illustrating effective collaboration and responsiveness.
Discussing the Nida Poll results, which suggested a cabinet adjustment with the Ministry of Interior ranked 6th in terms of necessity, Anutin expressed relief and a willingness to be the last to consider such adjustments. He firmly denied any intention to exclude the Bhumjaithai Party from the coalition, underscoring the party's unwavering support for the Prime Minister, provided no legal or ethical violations occur.
Anutin also addressed the question of the Bhumjaithai Party's perceived bargaining power, denying any such negotiations and reaffirming the party's commitment to cooperation and government stability. He recounted the invitation to join the coalition in mid-2023, noting the successful partnership and questioning the media's focus on reshuffle speculations.
Finally, Anutin confirmed having a non-political dinner with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra before Songkran, along with foreign guests, refuting any political implications from the meeting. He expressed bafflement over the media's eagerness to analyze the situation, reaffirming the Bhumjaithai Party's dedication to the coalition government.