PM plays down Bhumjaithai rift

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has again dismissed speculation of a rift within the government amid growing speculation the ruling Pheu Thai Party will seize control of the Interior Ministry and remove the Bhumjaithai Party from the coalition altogether.

- CHAIRITH YONPIAM

Speaking during the closing segment of her weekly show Thailand's Opportunities with PM Paetongtarn yesterday, the premier emphasised the coalition remains intact, saying clearly: “There's no rift, none at all.”

Towards the end of the talk programme, the premier showed a selfie of her taken on May 19 during a luncheon with the secretary-general of Indonesia's cabinet, which included Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul who is also the Bhumjaithai leader.