“Phiphat” confirms the meeting with Newin was strictly about football; no discussion regarding the “Kla Tham Party.”

Today (20 October 2026) at 9:30 AM at Government House, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Transport, and a key leader of the Bhumjaithai Party addressed reports regarding his meeting with Newin Chidchob, president of the Buriram United football club, in Songkhla province. Phiphat explained that Newin had traveled with his team for a Thai League match against Pattani FC. As the Pattani stadium is currently undergoing renovations, the match was held at a venue in Songkhla. Being a native of Songkhla, Phiphat attended the major match and took the opportunity to welcome Newin.

When asked by reporters whether Newin had hinted at the “Kla Tham Party” joining the government coalition, Mr. Phiphat stated that the topic never came up, as the event was centered on football rather than political agendas. He added that any decisions regarding which parties might join the government would rest with Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. When asked whether Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, had dropped any hints, Phiphat replied, “No, he hasn't.”

Regarding the recent appearance of Anutin dining with Captain Thamanat Prompow, leader of the Kla Tham Party, and whether this might signal any political developments, Mr. Phiphat noted that he was not at the table himself and therefore could not say. He added that Anutin and Captain Thamanat are well-acquainted and have dined together on various occasions in the past, so he could not offer a definitive interpretation.

When pressed about rumors regarding a potential merger between the Kla Tham Party and the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Phiphat stated that he was unsure of the source of these reports and did not know how the speculation began. As for whether such a move is even possible, he suggested that it would be a matter for the party leadership to discuss.

When asked further whether it might be time to bring the Kla Tham Party into the government coalition, Mr. Phiphat advised that it would be better to ask Anutin directly, as any comment from him might be inaccurate. He reiterated that all such questions should be directed to Anutin.

On the question of whether the current government is sufficiently stable, Mr. Phiphat remarked that the government has been strong from the very beginning. The administration referred to as the “Anutin 2” government has been in office for about six months, and many ministries have begun to find their footing, particularly the Ministry of Transport. He believes the government is effectively driving its policy agenda, with no operational issues. He noted that it takes time for any minister to settle into their role; they must first build an understanding with the civil service from the lower ranks up to the Permanent Secretary which is crucial, as effective collaboration between a minister and the ministry’s senior officials is essential for getting work done. Because those who manage the budget are civil servants.

When asked whether such a statement implies that a cabinet reshuffle is undesirable, Mr. Phiphat remarked that, in his view, it is still too early given that the administration has only been in office for six months. Ultimately, however, any such decision rests on the prime minister's assessment of what is appropriate, as well as the deliberations of the Bhumjaithai Party’s executive committee, a body of which he is not a member.

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong