Anutin Targets Pre-Songkran Cabinet Formation

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the vetting of prospective cabinet ministers is expected to take around one week, with the aim of forming a new government before Songkran. The process, involving checks by 18 agencies, is being expedited to ensure all nominees meet required qualifications.

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Speaking on March 20, 2026, Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, confirmed that discussions on the government’s policy statement were ongoing and would follow the direction outlined during the election campaign. He said the policy address to parliament should be delivered as soon as possible once the cabinet is finalised.

Anutin added that he had received the list of nominees from the Pheu Thai Party and instructed the Cabinet Secretariat to accelerate the verification process. He emphasised that all candidates, including those from the Bhumjaithai Party, must undergo the same checks, which he described as the fastest possible under current procedures.

The prime minister was also questioned about reports involving Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, a potential cabinet nominee allegedly summoned by the Department of Special Investigation over a land encroachment case at Hat Suan Ya. Anutin said he was unaware of the details and stressed that cabinet appointments cannot be disclosed until royal endorsement is granted.

Responding to concerns about pre-screening candidates to avoid legal complications, Anutin said the process follows Constitutional Court guidelines, with all submitted names subject to official review. He maintained that no issues were expected and that the process would proceed without delay.

He was also asked about criticism from Abhisit Vejjajiva regarding his qualifications as prime minister, linked to an alleged Senate collusion case. Anutin declined to engage with the remarks, and reporters shifted focus to the timeline for submitting the cabinet list for royal approval.

The Nation reported that Anutin said that once all candidates pass the vetting process, the list can be submitted for royal consideration and endorsement. He reiterated that no details would be disclosed before approval but expressed confidence that the timeline would be met.

Picture courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 22 Mar 2026

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