At 7:00 PM on May 16, at the Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel, Capt. Thammanat Prompao, Phayao MP and chief advisor of the Kla Tham Party, gave an interview following discussions with former Pheu Thai Party Secretary-General Anudit Nakornthap and former Bangkok MP Karun Hosakul. When asked if recruiting former Pheu Thai members made Kla Tham look like a branch party, Capt. Thammanat denied it. He explained that both individuals have been close friends since youth and that enhancing the party’s team is crucial. He described Anudit as a politically seasoned leader suitable to help institutionalize the party. He noted more individuals, particularly knowledgeable young people, would be introduced gradually. He also stated he would focus more on sports affairs.
When asked whether Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister, was consulted before inviting Anudit and Karun, Capt. Thammanat confirmed the discussion took place. He emphasized there was no conflict among them and consultation is normal before major moves.
Asked if he regularly consults Thaksin, he affirmed discussing the background of everyone involved. However, he noted Thaksin gave no specific recommendations.
Responding to earlier statements about more MPs joining, Capt. Thammanat said more names would be revealed weekly, including prominent figures and sitting MPs, but declined to name their original parties, clarifying none would come from coalition partners.
Asked if any would come from Palang Pracharath Party, he acknowledged many MPs were close to him and had his support in the past.
He dismissed rumors of vote-buying, saying candidates are considered for their future and political ideology, not inducements. He insisted Kla Tham is not a "vote-sucking" party and is focused on public benefit.
Regarding accusations from Progressive Movement leader Pannika Wanich that Kla Tham recruits MPs for cabinet positions, he denied having such intentions, adding the party lacks qualified candidates for the Interior Ministry post, currently held competently by Anutin Charnvirakul.
Asked about ministerial quota adjustments if more MPs join, Capt. Thammanat said he's thinking ahead to the next election. He stressed that Kla Tham doesn’t aim to replace Bhumjaithai but would support constituents more effectively with more MPs.
When asked if tensions between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai could affect government stability, he emphasized that political issues should be resolved politically, not militarily, and he believed dialogue was possible.
He remained noncommittal on whether the government would complete its term, stressing the need to constantly assess the situation and maintain communication.
On potential political "accidents," he noted with over a year left in the term, it's natural for parties to begin preparations, dismissing rumors as typical of disappointed individuals stirring conflict.
Finally, when asked about a scenario where Pheu Thai fails to win a majority in the next election, he avoided speculation, saying each party has its stance. As for the Senate appointment scandal, he said it’s a legal matter that should be handled accordingly.