Thai Prime Minister Olivert Announces Government Stability Amid Political Speculation

Key summary

On October 24 at 09:05, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also serving as Minister of Interior, addressed the nation via the 'Talk with Council of Ministers Anutin' program. He discussed government stability and future directions while facing scrutiny regarding relations with non-coalition parties, specifically the Palad Party (Party of Courage). Regarding the possibility of bringing a third party into the coalition, Anutin stated that while political outcomes are possible, decisions must prioritize national interests over suppressing any faction. He emphasized that forming a government requires strengthening stability to implement policies concretely. When asked if the Palad Party's vote of confidence during an upcoming debate would signal a move toward a coalition, the Prime Minister declined to answer directly, stating he would wait for events to unfold before assessing the situation, necessity, and potential benefits to the people, advising against making assumptions in advance. Anutin characterized the upcoming debate as a normal parliamentary process and a constitutional right of the opposition, refusing to criticize it or engage in political clashes; instead, the government will respond with its achievements and ongoing actions. Addressing rumors of internal dissent within coalition parties, he confirmed there are no problems between partners, joking that if there were 'waves' (dissent), they would be like a Jacuzzi supporting progress rather than internal conflict. He noted that although the current administration has two main parties, the Council of Ministers functions as a unified team where all projects are shared achievements, citing the 165 billion baht Chao Phraya project by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives as an example of long-term flood mitigation that cannot proceed if political credit is contested. Anutin reiterated his priority is the nation over politics. He praised professional ministers from outside the political sphere, specifically naming Sihaksit Puangketkavee, Pakorn Nilprapan, Ek Niti Nitipraphas, Supachai Sudthampanu, and General Adul Boonthamcharoen, highlighting the cabinet's strength lies in combining personnel from three sectors: politics (close to people), public administration, and professionals (understanding legal limits and state mechanisms). He confirmed that no conflicts hindered work during Council of Ministers meetings, with all parties showing mutual respect, viewing this political stability as a key condition for driving long-term policies and measures for the country.