Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul recently dispelled rumors suggesting he might step into the role of the next prime minister if Srettha Thavisin is ousted by the Constitutional Court. The court’s ruling is expected on August 14 over the contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, an ex-convict, as a PM’s Office Minister during the last cabinet reshuffle.
Mr. Anutin, who currently serves as both deputy prime minister and interior minister, remarked on Friday that the speculation regarding his potential ascension to premiership stems from a hypothetical worst-case scenario—one he finds highly improbable.
The rumors intensified after images circulated of a weekend retreat in Khao Yai, featuring the paroled former PM Thaksin Shinawatra—alleged to be the unofficial head of the ruling Pheu Thai Party—and his family alongside Anutin. This meeting sparked whispers of a possible political deal between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai.
Furthermore, Mr. Srettha recently made concessions to Mr. Anutin on the cannabis issue by ordering a draft bill to regulate its usage, hinting that cannabis might soon be removed from the narcotic drug list.
Pheu Thai’s political bench isn’t exactly shallow, either. The party boasts two more PM candidates: Chaikasem Nitisiri and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, who could theoretically fill Mr. Srettha’s shoes. However, experts highlight that Mr. Chaikasem’s age and deteriorating health pose significant obstacles. Meanwhile, Ms. Paetongtarn’s political inexperience, combined with Thaksin’s intention to shield her from the intense political arena, makes her candidacy unlikely at this moment.
This scenario leaves Bhumjaithai, the second-largest party in the coalition, in a prime position, with Mr. Anutin standing as their premier candidate. When quizzed about the possibility of Pheu Thai failing to nominate a successor for Mr. Srettha, Anutin pointed to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, describing him as the “government’s manager” well-suited to handle the situation.
Mr. Anutin brushed aside rumors that there might be reshuffling within the coalition, mentioning that the Democrat Party could be brought in, and some Palang Pracharath Party factions might be expelled. He asserted that the existing coalition remains robust.
Circulating speculations about Thaksin’s planned trip to Dubai, which was obstructed by a court order, added fuel to the political rumor mill. Some believe the trip was a strategy to avoid being present during a potentially tumultuous political period. The Criminal Court had earlier this week denied Thaksin permission to leave for Dubai for medical reasons. The request was reportedly filed last Saturday, citing his need to stay in Dubai from August 1 to August 16.
The court noted that Thaksin’s health issues were relatively common and could be treated in Thailand. Moreover, the proximity of the requested period to August 19, when Thaksin is due in court for examinations and witness list read-outs in a lese majeste case, raised suspicions. The court deemed his appointments abroad personal and not urgent enough to warrant the trip.
Meanwhile, Mr. Srettha on Friday downplayed any link between Thaksin’s movement and the ongoing Constitutional Court cases, including Thaksin’s own legal battles. He urged the public to refrain from wild speculation that could sidetrack the government from its pressing duties.
“Revamping the cabinet isn’t our top priority right now. We have numerous pressing issues to tackle, and the government’s focus is squarely on addressing these challenges,” Mr. Srettha emphasized, hoping to quash any distracting rumors of a backup prime minister or an imminent cabinet reshuffle.
I can’t believe people think Anutin would become the PM! It’s such a wild speculation.
Why not, though? He has the political clout and the connections.
But he’s already stated it’s highly improbable. This sounds like a media-created frenzy.
Exactly, Kanya. Plus, the coalition is still stable. No need for such drastic changes.
It’s all a political chess game. Thaksin is still pulling the strings behind the scenes, no doubt.
That’s stretching it. Thaksin’s influence might be there, but he’s not the grand puppeteer.
I second Nguyen. It’s been years since Thaksin held any real governmental power.
You’re both naive. Politics is about power and influence. Thaksin has networks money can’t buy.
Removing cannabis from the narcotic list is one of the few progressive steps this government is taking.
Cannabis? Really? How about solving serious economic problems first!
Cannabis regulation can actually boost the economy if handled correctly.
A balanced approach is key. Neglecting either won’t do any good. Both are important for societal progress.
Thaksin’s trip to Dubai seems suspicious. Trying to get out of his court appointments, perhaps?
It’s pretty clear Thaksin’s motives are always under question. This feels like yet another ploy.
Or maybe it was just a legitimate medical reason. Not everything is a conspiracy.
If it were legitimate, the court wouldn’t have denied it, right?
Courts have denied requests before that later turned out to be genuine. It’s not black and white.
Pheu Thai should focus on picking a strong candidate if Srettha is ousted.
Chaikasem and Paetongtarn have their limitations. It’s a tough choice.
Paetongtarn might be inexperienced, but she’s got the Shinawatra name. That carries weight.
I think Phumtham would be a good interim choice. He knows the system well.
Coalition politics can make or break a government. It’s more fragile than it appears.
True, but the current coalition seems pretty robust so far.
These political games are just distracting the public from real issues like health and education.
Politicians will always put their careers first. It’s the nature of the beast.
Look at how they’re handling the cannabis issue. It’s a distraction.
Cannabis legalization has been a long time coming. It’s not a distraction but an important social reform.
Phumtham becoming PM seems like the most stable choice. He’s experienced and respected.
Thaksin needs to stop meddling. New leaders should focus on the future, not the past.
True, but history can’t just be erased. His influence is a reality.
Why is everyone so obsessed with Thaksin? Aren’t there bigger fish to fry?
Totally. Let’s focus on things like healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation.
Indeed, but Thaksin represents a significant power block. Ignoring him isn’t the solution.
Srettha should focus on his current role rather than these endless speculations.
Thailand has more pressing issues than reshuffling cabinets every other month.
But leadership stability is crucial to addressing those issues.
No matter who’s in charge, the government must prioritize people’s needs first.