Bangkok: “Phumtham” had lunch with the media at Government House, thanking them for their work together and expressing regret at the sudden departure. He insisted that Pheu Thai will uphold its ideals and continue working. He revealed that he lost over 10 kg while in caretaker charge.
According to Thai News Agency, after the final cabinet meeting of the caretaker government, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, acting on behalf of the Prime Minister, along with Mr. Chusak Sirinil, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Ms. Jiraporn Sindhuphrai, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, Government Spokesperson, and Mr. Somkid Chuakong, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs, walked down from Building 1 to a specially prepared dining table next to Rang Nok Krajok 3, or the press office at Government House. The table was specially prepared for the media to share a meal with the Government House press as a token of appreciation for their work over the past two years. The menu included red pork and crispy pork with rice, fried chicken with rice, duck with rice, pizza, as well as desserts, drinks, and ice cream. Everyone displayed bright smiles, relaxed demeanor, and good spirits.
Mr. Bhumtham stated that today we are trying to clear up all the work at hand. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is currently forming a government, and our ministerial term is coming to an end when the new Cabinet is sworn in. During this time, we must clear up all our work so that the new Cabinet can proceed. He stated that he intended to dine with the media today after working together for so long. While there may be some disagreements and disagreements, this is normal, but he believes it’s not a problem. This is the nature of working together. He expressed regret that it may be a little too soon to part ways, but that’s okay, as we’re starting to organize things, as the Prime Minister is nearing the end of forming a government.
Mr. Phumtham added that it’s normal for politicians in a democracy, whether in the opposition or the government, to have responsibilities. When we encounter issues with forming a government, we must return to our duties as opposition members. Ministers who are still MPs return to their duties, and he, while not an MP, returns to work with his party.
After all these discussions, we are ready to continue operating the party, while remaining committed to its ideals. The Pheu Thai Party still has capital, and at least 10,000,000 people still love and are committed to it. Therefore, we have a duty to continue working with the Pheu Thai Party, and we are committed to the fight. As for whoever decides to do what next, that is their prerogative.
Mr. Phumtham also revealed that since assuming the position of acting prime minister, he has lost over 10 kilograms, from 90 to 76 kilograms. This was due to his eating less during that period, not his heartbreak. He joked that his true passion was to look good, as suits were too tight for him. He added that he would have more time to exercise from now on.