Bangkok: The coalition dinner organized by Thailand's government has commenced, with Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urging all attendees to contribute to the meal expenses. The event, hosted by the Bhumjaithai Party, is taking place at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Bangkok, with each participant asked to cover a 7,000 baht cost due to the high hotel expenses.
According to Thai News Agency, the gathering marks the second time Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra's administration has held such an event. Anutin Charnvirakul, who leads the Bhumjaithai Party, is overseeing the arrangements. He shared that the venue was chosen for its accessibility and familiarity, and assured that a variety of dishes, including spaghetti with meat sauce, would be served. Anutin emphasized that the dinner should remain a casual affair and not be politicized.
Leaders and secretaries from coalition parties began arriving, including prominent figures such as Suwat Liptapanlop from the Chart Pattana Party, Surawong Thienthong from the Pheu Thai Party, and Varawut Silpa-archa from the Chartthaipattana Party, among others. The Prime Minister arrived shortly after, greeted by Anutin and other party leaders.
Anutin requested that attendees personally cover the dinner costs, highlighting that he had already made the necessary arrangements and payments in advance. This led to a flurry of activity as coalition leaders used their phones to transfer funds to Anutin, while some, like Chalermchai Sri-on of the Democrat Party, opted to pay in cash.
The Prime Minister expressed his support for sharing the event's expenses, acknowledging the high costs associated with the hotel. Lacking cash on hand, he humorously asked Sarawong Thienthong to temporarily cover his share, promising to repay him later.