Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul and Captain Thamanat Promphao excused themselves from a crucial Cabinet meeting focused on the formation of a new government, sparking widespread media interest. The meeting, held at the Government House, was closely monitored due to the ongoing discussions about the potential coalition with the Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties.
According to Thai News Agency, the absence of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as the Minister of Interior and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Captain Thamanat Promphao, who is the chairman of the advisory board of the Kla Tham Party, was notable. Their discussions on forming a government have been a focal point, especially amid rumors suggesting that the Kla Tham Party might not be a part of the coalition.
In their absence, Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram was assigned to chair the meeting, as Anutin had prior engagements. Reports have emerged indicating the possibility of Anutin and Thammanat meeting later at a royal cremation ceremony for Mrs. Sasipatchara Sinsamorn, although this remains unconfirmed.
In addition to Anutin and Thammanat, five other cabinet ministers also requested leave from the meeting. These include Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Tourism and Sports Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Industry Thanagorn Wangboonkhongchana, Minister of Culture Sabida Thaiseth, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin.