On June 16 in Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, also leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, confirmed he received a summons from the Election Commission’s (EC) investigation committee regarding alleged collusion in the Senate election case.
“I’m one of the senior Bhumjaithai members who received the summons—it was sent to my home in Buriram,” said Anutin. He affirmed he would comply with the law and attend as required but would rely on legal counsel for his response. “I’m not worried because I’ve done nothing wrong.”
Asked if this reflects a political rift within the government, Anutin dismissed the idea but acknowledged it may have political undertones: “Everyone in political circles knows what’s happening, but I won’t say more. We’ll fight within the legal framework.”
He also addressed the party’s meeting scheduled for the evening, explaining it was a routine session to discuss upcoming parliamentary matters, especially budget planning, and was not politically motivated.
As for rumors about Bhumjaithai being removed from the coalition government, Anutin laughed and replied, “There’s nothing to it. That’s just media speculation. The Prime Minister and I get along well.”
When asked if he is still holding the position of Interior Minister, Anutin confirmed, “Yes, I am.”
He added that he has not had any discussions with the Prime Minister about a Cabinet reshuffle and remarked, “I’m tired of hearing those rumors.”