Bangkok: The Prime Minister has firmly denied any discussions with Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul regarding the alleged rejection of the 2016 budget, emphasizing that the coalition government's stability remains intact and under his control. In a recent interview, the Prime Minister expressed confusion over rumors about the dissolution of the House of Representatives and questioned the media about the origins of such speculation.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, addressed the media's inquiries, laughing off the suggestion that the House might be dissolved. She clarified that drafting the budget is a collective responsibility of the coalition parties and denied any tensions leading to a potential dissolution. The Prime Minister also mentioned that Mr. Anutin is currently on leave for eye surgery and that there had been no discussions about the budget rejection with him.
In response to questions about the government's stability, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that it remains as strong as ever. When asked about the influence of former leaders Thaksin Shinawatra and Newin Chidchob, she dismissed any legal battles involving them as external matters not affecting the government's operations. Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornvivat, present at the press conference, noted the media's tendency to draw connections, which the Prime Minister humorously acknowledged.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government's stability is assured and controlled, asserting that any issues related to spiritual leaders would occur outside the governmental system. She also addressed potential disagreements within coalition parties, highlighting the importance of dialogue and informal discussions to resolve differences.
When probed about recurring issues between the Pheu Thai Party and the Bhumjaithai Party over significant bills, the Prime Minister jokingly suggested that the media might be responsible for the continual news cycle before exiting the press conference.