Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

 

BANGKOK – Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul has dialled down his insistence on keeping the interior portfolio amid swirling discussions about a cabinet reshuffle.

 

As the current coalition government, led by the Pheu Thai party under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, faces potential changes, Anutin called for a coalition-wide discussion to consider a comprehensive reshuffle. This move could impact all coalition partners, not just Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, the latter being the second largest in the partnership.

 

Anutin, who serves as both deputy prime minister and interior minister, hinted that a new cabinet lineup might be introduced as early as this month. He suggested that all parties within the coalition, including Pheu Thai, hold fresh negotiations to facilitate this adjustment.

 

His remarks came in response to rumours that Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party and father to Prime Minister Paetongtarn, aims to have a Pheu Thai figure take over the interior ministry, which is currently managed by Anutin.

 

Previously, Anutin had threatened to withdraw Bhumjaithai from the coalition if any attempts were made to strip his party of the interior portfolio.

 

However, he now appears to advocate for a more diplomatic approach, suggesting a meeting among all coalition partners to resolve the dispute and seek a full cabinet reshuffle. This shift reflects a strategic change as Bhumjaithai strives to maintain its influence while navigating coalition politics.

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn, on the other hand, has yet to make any definitive statements regarding the cabinet’s future configuration. She confirmed there was no formal agreement that guarantees any party control over specific portfolios throughout the Pheu Thai-led government’s potential four-year tenure.

 

Yet, the prospect of Thaksin’s influence looms, especially given his comments on implementing government policies requiring the interior ministry's involvement.

 

As the tug-of-war between Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai continues, the outcome will indicate the stability and future direction of the coalition government. 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-18

 

 

What is Anutin being offered???

15 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

What is Anutin being offered???

 

to take part in creating a corrupt, dishonest, and thieving coalition government ... 

 

1 minute ago, motdaeng said:

 

to take part in creating a corrupt, dishonest, and thieving coalition government ... 

 

So nothing different