Politics

Reappointed as deputy prime minister and finance minister, Ekniti must steer Thailand through rising fuel costs, living pressures and tighter fiscal constraints.

The Royal Gazette has published a royal command appointing ministers in Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s second cabinet under Section 158 of the Constitution, listing deputy prime ministers and key ministerial portfolios.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is expected to deliver his government’s policy statement to Parliament on April 7-9, 2026, centred on a “Thailand 10 Plus” stimulus-and-opportunity plan and a target of at least 3% average annual GDP growth.

A Bhumjaithai source says background and qualification checks for the “Anutin 2” cabinet have been completed. Pheu Thai has replaced Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol with Nikorn Soemklang for the Social Development portfolio, with 35 names due for final review and submission on March 30.

People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut demanded that the government explain the overnight fuel price rise in the House, while Rangsiman Rome said the “shadowy mastermind” behind the crisis was the government itself, after subsidy cuts pushed diesel to 38.94 baht a litre.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the removal of fuel price controls could trigger ripple effects, adding the government would rely on Commerce Ministry and other agencies’ mechanisms, as motorists queue at stations.

Background checks are under way on the proposed Anutin II Cabinet, with the new line-up expected to be submitted for royal command on March 27.

As Anutin Charnvirakul begins a second term and moves to form a Bhumjaithai-led cabinet, analysts warn of five looming pressure points—from the energy shock and US trade risks to rising public debt, inflation and sensitive political cases.

A Nida Poll found most Thais are worried about the oil crisis, with more than half reporting daily disruption and many doubting the government’s ability to manage supplies.

Anutin says ministerial checks will take about a week, with the new cabinet expected before Songkran if all qualifications are cleared

Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul secured 293 votes in a special House sitting on March 19, 2026, winning a second term as Thailand’s 32nd prime minister.

People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut says his party never tried to form a rival government, but warns that the next administration must restore legitimacy, rebuild public confidence and tackle mounting national crises.

Ahead of the prime ministerial vote, the People’s Party told parliament that three unresolved issues cast doubt on whether Anutin Charnvirakul meets the constitutional standard of integrity required for office.