Bangkok: The Prime Minister avoided addressing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's comments about reclaiming control of the Interior Ministry, while maintaining that he does not dominate the Pheu Thai Party. Despite expressing fatigue, he affirmed that the political climate remains stable.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister left the parliament building at 18.50 hrs. When reporters questioned him about Thaksin's interview suggesting that the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives should be overseen by the Pheu Thai Party, the Prime Minister simply replied, "No, not yet," indicating he hadn't discussed the matter with Thaksin.
Further pressed on whether Thaksin is perceived as having influence over the Pheu Thai Party, the Prime Minister insisted, "Not dominating, not dominating. Take it easy." He also sidestepped questions about a potential cabinet reshuffle following the approval of the fiscal year 2016 draft budget bill, stating that an interview would be given to Ms. Sudawan Wangsupakitchkosol, the Minister of Culture.
When asked if Thaksin's statements might disrupt the coalition government's improving atmosphere, the Prime Minister confidently asserted that the political environment is positive. He then smiled and nodded at the Minister of Culture, avoiding further elaboration.
The Prime Minister also did not respond to inquiries about the potential resurgence of Pheu Thai Party dominance issues or whether he had discussed these matters with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party.
Shifting focus, reporters asked about security concerns related to the Thai-Cambodian border. The Prime Minister chose not to comment, instead expressing his fatigue to his entourage before departing in his vehicle. Observers noted that he seemed exhausted and consistently avoided media questions throughout the day.