“More than I asked for”: Anutin on his landslide victory

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said today that he was grateful for receiving more than he had asked for following the Bhumjaithai Party’s landslide victory in yesterday’s general election.

Anutin said his greatest source of pride was the trust and confidence shown by the public in him and in the Bhumjaithai Party.

This morning, Anutin paid homage at the Phra Phum shrine as well as the Ta and Yai shrines at the Thai Khu Fah Building, which are regarded as sacred guardians of the Government House compound.

He said he regularly prays to sacred spirits for good fortune and had come to express his gratitude for blessings he believed exceeded his expectations.

Anutin added that no political parties had yet contacted him to offer congratulations.

Regarding progress in forming a new government, with vote tallies now largely settled, Anutin said the process must proceed in accordance with established procedures.

When asked about the possibility of inviting the Pheu Thai Party to join the government, Anutin said the matter was under consideration but would need to be discussed by the party’s executive committee. He declined to say whether a memorandum of agreement (MOA) would be required in forming a coalition.

Anutin also said he visits his parents every week out of gratitude for giving him life, education, guidance, and a sense of duty to serve the country.

Asked about his first priority upon officially assuming the premiership, Anutin replied briefly that he would first ensure everything is properly in order.

After the interview, Anutin walked upstairs inside the Thai Khu Fah Building to pay respects to a replica statue of Narasingh, where he made a “plus” hand gesture — a symbol associated with the Bhumjaithai Party’s campaign policy.