Politics
BANGKOK — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has sought to reassure the public that his administration remains stable despite growing political pressure, falling approval ratings and the prospect of a no-confidence debate in parliament.
Speaking to Thai PBS World, Anutin said he remained confident in the strength of his government, pointing to recent parliamentary support from opposition lawmakers during the passage of the government’s budget bill.
His comments come as speculation continues over a possible expansion of the ruling coalition. The Kla Tham Party, led by veteran politician Thammanat Promphao, has recently moved closer to the government after its MPs supported the administration during the budget vote.
The party’s 58 lawmakers could become an important source of additional parliamentary support if Kla Tham formally enters the coalition. Anutin is also expected to face increased scrutiny should the opposition proceed with a planned no-confidence motion.
The prime minister has played down concerns surrounding his government, despite several political challenges in recent months.
The ruling Bhumjaithai Party and several of its senior figures, including Anutin, were previously linked to allegations surrounding irregularities in the Senate election. The Election Commission subsequently dropped the cases, although the controversy has continued to feature in political debate.
The government has also faced criticism over its response to severe flooding in Bangkok and nearby provinces.
Public support for Anutin has declined in recent polling. A survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) placed his approval rating at 13.76 percent, compared with 21.7 percent in June.
Anutin has not provided a specific timetable for a Cabinet reshuffle. A senior Bhumjaithai source told Thai PBS World that such a move is unlikely to take place before the end of the year.
Under the possible coalition arrangement, Kla Tham would receive ministerial positions from Bhumjaithai’s existing Cabinet allocation. Portfolios currently held by Pheu Thai, the government’s major coalition partner, would not be affected.
The government currently controls 293 seats in the House of Representatives. If Kla Tham’s 58 MPs were formally added to the coalition, the combined numbers would further strengthen the administration’s parliamentary position.
