Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed confidence in his ability to form a government, declaring his readiness to assume the role of Prime Minister starting in 2019. He believes he has secured enough votes to establish an interim government and has requested a four-month period to work for the country after delivering his policy statement.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin made these statements at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters after returning from discussions with leaders of the Prachachon Party and the Kla Tham Party. He was accompanied by Santi Promphat of the Palang Pracharath Party, Suchart Chomklin of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, Sakda Wichiensri from the Pheu Thai Party, Suratin Picharn of the New Democracy Party, and Niphon Bunyamanee, a former minister from the Democrat Party.
Anutin emphasized the collective readiness of the gathered House of Representatives members to form the next government, aiming to swiftly resolve the country's issues and ensure uninterrupted progress for Thailand. He acknowledged the conditions set by the People's Party and confirmed that discussions had been guided by these stipulations.
He further explained that the group had convened after the Constitutional Court's ruling to address the country's stagnation, expressing confidence in their ability to solve ongoing issues. Anutin stressed the importance of restoring peace and prosperity to Thailand, with support from the People's Party.
Anutin outlined the conditions for government formation, which include holding a referendum to amend the constitution, restoring peace and stability, and negotiating with neighboring countries facing serious problems. He assured that power would be returned to the people within four months after the government's policy announcement, allowing citizens to decide the nation's future.
When questioned about the number of votes he had secured, Anutin refrained from discussing specifics, emphasizing the focus on working for the country. He confirmed sufficient support to form a government swiftly and stated that discussions with the People's Party had been positive, with no conflicts in principle.
Anutin also addressed concerns about the conditions of the Prachachon Party, noting that any necessary adjustments would be made to prioritize immediate national issues. He highlighted the experience and capability of those involved in addressing the country's challenges.
In response to questions about the coalition government's stance, Anutin clarified that they were not obstructing the next government's objectives, which include addressing existing issues promptly. He confirmed ongoing discussions with coalition parties and the readiness to present sufficient support to the People's Party.
Anutin reiterated his readiness to become Prime Minister as the Bhumjaithai Party leader since 2019. He also commented on the dissolution of Parliament, stating he would not interfere and emphasizing the importance of focusing on building a new government.
Responding to inquiries about Pheu Thai's potential concerns, Anutin asserted that the Bhumjaithai Party remains committed to progress. Sakda Wichiensilp of the Pheu Thai Party confirmed support for Anutin, citing a desire for national advancement and confidence in Anutin as a suitable candidate for Prime Minister.