Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, has expressed support for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s approach to tackling drug problems in Thailand. Emphasizing the necessity for collaboration across various governmental sectors, Anutin highlighted the importance of not being selective about tasks and maintaining strong relations with key figures, as depicted in recent public images of camaraderie with Thaksin. He also clarified that recent social gatherings, such as a dinner with Newin Chidchob and Thaksin, are separate from governmental affairs.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin discussed Thaksin’s recent speech urging the Interior Ministry and police to work more closely together on drug suppression. Anutin acknowledged the value in Thaksin’s suggestions and mentioned his own close ties with officials like Pol. Gen. Kittiratt Panpetch, the national police chief. He pointed out that many of the Interior Ministry’s initiatives, such as the village x-rays program, align with Thaksin’s proposals. Anutin assured that collaboration with police, military, provincial administration, and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board is ongoing. He also stressed the need for diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries to address cross-border drug production, supporting Thaksin’s call for serious negotiations and coordinated efforts.
Addressing the issue of ministry cooperation, Anutin stated that as a citizen, Thaksin has the right to press ministries for action. He noted that initiatives under the Bhumjaithai Party’s supervision are already in motion, and additional efforts will be focused on areas not yet addressed. Anutin also responded to Thaksin’s suggestion that the 157 billion baht economic stimulus budget be used to combat drug issues, indicating alignment with Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra’s security-focused directives.
When asked about perceptions of Thaksin as the actual prime minister, Anutin downplayed such criticisms, emphasizing the importance of listening to experienced citizens like Thaksin. He praised the ONCB’s decision to invite Thaksin for a lecture, viewing it as a valuable exchange of experiences in drug policy.
Anutin also expressed willingness to collaborate with Thaksin in addressing drug issues on the ground, emphasizing the necessity of joint efforts and agency cooperation. He stated that all parties must engage actively and confront challenges head-on, regardless of which unit leads the charge.
Lastly, Anutin addressed speculations about political maneuvering within the Bhumjaithai Party, asserting that the camaraderie displayed with Thaksin is genuine and unrelated to governmental roles or political strategy. He clarified that meetings with figures like Newin Chidchob are based on mutual respect and personal relationships, separate from formal government business.