Thai Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul Resigns as Bhumjaithai Party Exits Government Coalition

BANGKOK, June 19, 2025 — Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, announced his resignation from both posts this afternoon, following a dramatic decision by his Bhumjaithai Party to withdraw from the ruling government coalition as we reported here.

The move, confirmed by Anutin in his capacity as party leader, stems from mounting tensions within the government, exacerbated by a leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian leaders as we reported here, which has sparked widespread controversy. Bhumjaithai, one of Thailand’s most powerful political parties, is now expected to align with the opposition, potentially reshaping the country’s political dynamics.

The leaked phone call, details of which remain contentious, reportedly involved discussions perceived as compromising Thailand’s national interests, prompting sharp criticism from Bhumjaithai and other coalition partners. This incident follows weeks of internal discord over the allocation of ministerial positions, with Bhumjaithai expressing frustration over what it described as unequal treatment within the coalition.

Anutin, a prominent figure known for his tenure as Minister of Public Health during the COVID-19 pandemic and decriminalizing cannabis, cited these issues as central to the party’s decision to exit the government during a press conference yesterday.

Anutin’s resignation marks a blow to the Paetongtarn administration, which has faced increasing scrutiny since taking office. Bhumjaithai’s departure weakens the coalition’s parliamentary majority, raising questions about the government’s ability to push through key legislation.