At 12:20 PM on June 17 at Government House, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spoke to the press after a Cabinet meeting regarding her recent conversation with Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who is also the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party. She confirmed that there were no discussions about a Cabinet reshuffle during their June 16 meeting. Instead, they focused on policy implementation issues and areas needing stronger execution. At one point during the interview, she looked around and remarked that Mr. Anutin was not present.
When asked whether her detailed directives to the Ministry of Interior suggest that Mr. Anutin will remain as Interior Minister (MoI1), she replied that it’s open to interpretation. She emphasized that regardless of ministerial changes, ministries must continue functioning.
Responding to whether any preconditions were agreed upon before forming the coalition, such as tenure guarantees for certain ministers, the Prime Minister clarified that no such conditions existed—only discussions on which party would manage which ministry.
Asked about rumors that Bhumjaithai might leave the coalition to become the opposition if they lose control of the Ministry of Interior, Paetongtarn said, “No, not at all. He didn’t mention anything like that yesterday.” She then ended the interview and walked away without answering further questions, including one about why Pheu Thai Party wants to reclaim the Ministry of Interior.
Reporters noted that following today’s Cabinet meeting, Anutin and other ministers from coalition parties were noticeably absent from the post-meeting press briefing. Only ministers from the Pheu Thai Party attended, unlike in previous instances where broader participation was seen.