Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his confidence in Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin's capability to manage the ongoing issue concerning the Medical Council's resolution. Anutin dismissed any involvement with the Senate's decision to form two joint committees to investigate the Medical Council's punishment of doctors who treated former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. He asserted his lack of involvement and mentioned he would avoid visiting the Senate until the situation is resolved.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin clarified his stance on the matter, emphasizing that he had no prior knowledge of the Senate's actions and refrained from entering the Senate building due to the current tension. He mentioned a previous visit to the Senate, where he met with Gen. Kriangkrai Srirak, the First Vice President of the Senate, but now chooses to wait until the issue is settled before re-engaging. Anutin addressed the speculation linking the Blue Party to the Senate's actions, highlighting that "blue" is a color symbolizing nobility and loyalty, dismissing any political conflict associations.
Anutin further elaborated on his recent activities, including attending a meeting at the Ministry of Justice regarding drugs, at the invitation of Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice. He underlined the importance of collaboration between ministries, refuting claims of discord. Anutin questioned why, despite evident cooperation, there are still narratives of conflict. He insisted that if there were genuine disagreements, such joint efforts would not be possible.
Regarding the situation within the Ministry of Public Health following Minister Somsak's veto of the Medical Council resolution, Anutin downplayed any notion of chaos. He recounted a meeting with Somsak at Government House where they exchanged supportive information, reaffirming that Somsak, who has experience as a minister since before completing high school, possesses the capability to handle the situation effectively.