BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed growing speculation over a potential cabinet reshuffle following the House of Representatives’ approval of the 2026 annual budget bill. Speaking to reporters, she said, “As of today, nothing has changed. If there are any changes involving ministers from the Pheu Thai Party, I will handle them personally.”
She noted that the widespread rumors had unsettled ministers, making many feel discouraged. “I don’t want things to be that way,” she said, adding that she has been trying to reassure members within her party.
When asked whether recent comments by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, had demoralized coalition partners, she replied, “No. Just now, I sat with members from several parties and no one brought up the issue.”
Regarding Thaksin’s reported criticism of the Ministry of Interior, she responded, “That was his comment. I haven’t made any evaluation in that regard yet. Let’s wait and see.”
Asked if she had spoken with Thaksin about his controversial remarks, which many perceived as exerting control over the party, she replied, “We talk every day. Just now, I was on the phone with my father.”
When pressed further on allegations of Thaksin’s influence over the Pheu Thai Party, she nodded and said, “Yes.” However, she elaborated that whether one is influenced or not is a personal matter. “People feel affected by his words — not only party members but even those outside politics. But does that mean he’s exerting control over everyone?” she asked. “It’s a personal choice — whether you allow yourself to be influenced. I believe no one can truly control anyone else.”
Asked about Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s performance, she responded, “Khun Anutin? If there’s anything, I can always call him. We’ve been able to communicate well. Every ministry, including the Interior, has things they can and cannot do. Let’s see what happens in the future.”
On rumors that the Pheu Thai Party wants to reclaim control of the Interior Ministry, she immediately dismissed them: “I haven’t said that. If you want to go deeper, ask Thaksin. He was the one who gave that interview, not me. As of now, nothing has changed. If it does, I’ll let you know.”
Asked whether a cabinet reshuffle or portfolio swaps are possible, she replied, “Everything is possible — just like I said during the election. Anything can happen, even if we didn’t plan for it.”
Asked if the coalition remains stable, she confirmed, “Yes. Just now, I sent a message in the Cabinet group chat thanking everyone for their votes. The budget will now move forward to help the people. Our policies can now be fully implemented.”
Asked about tensions between the Bhumjaithai Party and the government regarding the digital wallet policy, she responded with a question of her own: “You mean when they suggested distributing 20,000 baht instead? That wasn’t exactly a rejection. The higher amount may not be feasible due to budget constraints — other areas need to be addressed first.”
Finally, asked if she could clearly confirm that cabinet changes are underway, she said, “There’s nothing definite yet, so I can’t say anything for sure. That’s why I’ve been repeating — anything can happen.”
Asked one last time whether she would allow Thaksin to dominate the Pheu Thai Party, she firmly stated, “Thaksin cannot control me.”
To a follow-up asking whether we’re seeing “Thaksin Thinks, Pheu Thai Acts: Part 2,” she replied, “Thaksin gives advice. His daughter listens — and considers it.”
