Thai Prime Minister Anutin Opens Door to Third Coalition Partner Amid Speculation

Key summary

On October 24, 2026, Thai Prime Minister and Ministry of Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the possibility of expanding the ruling coalition on NBT's 'Talk with PM Anutin' program. He stated that while political scenarios are open-ended, decisions must prioritize national stability and policy implementation rather than suppressing any faction. When asked about merging his party, Pheu Thai, with the new 'Glaadham' party, Anutin declined to answer definitively, citing a need to assess the situation, necessity, cooperation, and potential benefits for the country before making assumptions. He confirmed that if the Glaadham party votes to support the government during an upcoming vote of no confidence, it could lead to coalition participation, but emphasized that such processes must be evaluated as they unfold. Anutin dismissed reports of internal 'undercurrents' within the cabinet, joking that any waves are merely 'jacuzzi systems' aiding progress rather than conflict. He highlighted that once a project passes the Cabinet's resolution, it is a collective government achievement regardless of party origin, citing the 165 billion baht Sapa-Khlong Phraya-Gulf of Thailand project as an example of cross-party collaboration to solve long-term flooding issues. The Prime Minister also praised the inclusion of professional ministers from outside politics, such as Nisak Pongketkavee and Adul Boonthamcharoen, noting that the cabinet's strength lies in combining political proximity with public service expertise.