A FORMER Bhumjaithai party-listed MP angrily criticised an independent academic for alleging in an online interview that the formation of the next government after the Feb. 8 general election had been prearranged to ensure that Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul continues to stay at the helm with the country remaining in a precarious situation, Amarin TV said.
The former Bhumjaithai MP, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, said comments by the academic, Mr. Jermsak Pinthong, were harsh and defamatory and damaged both Anutin and his camp while possibly negatively impacting the upcoming election.
These comments were not based on academic principles but stemmed from hidden political bias, he added.
He also countered Jermsak’s opinion that change will be difficult with the patronage system still holding sway in the country and powerful “Big House” families still controlling the political landscape by pointing out that elections are a democratic process with the decision resting with eligible voters.
The accusation of pre-determined government formation requires clarification from the public regarding who is responsible, because in principle no individual or group can pre-determine election results on behalf of the people, Supachai added.
Regarding criticism that Anutin is insincere for not agreeing to participate in debates, Supachai said the Caretaker Prime Minister decided not to do so because he has a lot of confidential information pertaining to national security and would not be able to answer some of the questions raised by other party leaders while debating.
He also warned those who disseminate or share clips of this interview that they could be violating the Constitutional Act on the Election of Members of Parliament with Bhumjaithai to pursue legal action against them. The media was also urged to consider the appropriateness of providing space for comments that may be defamatory or slanderous towards political parties or election candidates.
CAPTIONS:
Top and Front Page – Former Bhumjaithai party-listed MP Supachai Jaisamut, left, and independent academic Jermsak Pinthong. Photo – Amarin TV
Insert – Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visiting troops at the border today, Jan. 2, 2026. Photo – Amarin TV
Also read:
People’s and Pheu Thai teams campaign at same Chiang Mai market on New Year’s Day
People’s duo top yearend opinion poll
Phang Nga villagers launch boat to ward off bad luck and welcome the New Year
Couple found shot dead at their home after New Year’s Eve
