Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stated his readiness for the Bhumjaithai Party to move to the opposition if the Ministry of Interior is taken from them. He emphasized the original agreement in forming the government and questioned the real intentions behind the desire for the Interior Ministry. Bhumjaithai has consistently supported the Prime Minister and the government in every situation.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin discussed his recent conversation with Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra concerning the cabinet reshuffle. He addressed rumors about exchanging two ministries for one, indicating that if the Prime Minister denied such discussions, then they likely did not occur. Anutin stressed the importance of being ready to work in any ministry and the significance of trust over formal agreements.
Anutin elaborated on the verbal agreement concerning the ministry quotas, asserting that mutual understanding and trust were more critical than formal MOUs. He recounted how the coalition with the Pheu Thai Party was formed without needing an MOU, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the original agreement.
Despite questions about potential complications arising from the reshuffle, Anutin assured that there would be no complexity. He reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party is prepared to join the opposition if it does not retain control of the Interior Ministry, as per the coalition's agreement.
Anutin also addressed speculation about whether Pheu Thai might withhold the Interior Ministry, insisting that Bhumjaithai would not relinquish it. He expressed respect for the Prime Minister and reiterated the party's commitment to the agreed terms.
In discussing the roles of Newin Chidchob and Thaksin Shinawatra, Anutin noted that decisions about ministry allocations were his responsibility. He maintained that the Interior Ministry's oversight had not caused any damage based on recent polls, and that his support for the government had been consistent.
Anutin also dismissed concerns about the sufficiency of government votes without the Bhumjaithai Party, focusing instead on the importance of agreements and cooperation. He praised the Prime Minister's leadership and responsiveness to legal issues.
When questioned about the potential impact of the Bhumjaithai Party's shift to opposition on the government's stability, Anutin pointed to existing agreements and mutual understanding within the coalition.
Anutin concluded by addressing rumors about the necessity of the Interior Ministry for advancing legislation such as the Online Gambling Act. He clarified that any amendments required a consensus, which had not been reached due to religious and moral considerations.
During a recent Bhumjaithai Party meeting, Anutin informed members about discussions over potential ministry exchanges. He assured them of his commitment to decisions that benefit the public and emphasized the party's unwavering support for the government.
Anutin reiterated that the Interior Ministry must remain under Bhumjaithai's control, barring any comprehensive reorganization. He expressed confidence in the Prime Minister's rationale and willingness to adapt if necessary.