Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) leader Anutin Charnvirakul has welcomed several prominent politicians from Nakhon Ratchasima’s influential “Baan Yai” (Big House) political clan, as well as some former Pheu Thai Party MPs, who have officially joined the BJT ahead of the next general election.
Those switching sides included Kosol Patama, incumbent Pheu Thai MP for Nakhon Ratchasima; Phongsakorn Annopphon, former Pheu Thai MP for Khon Kaen; Thawirat Rattanaset, former Pheu Thai MP for Nakhon Ratchasima; and Tattirat Rattanaset, son of veteran politician Wirat Rattanaset. The group submitted their membership applications to join the BJT in preparation for the upcoming polls.
Mr Anutin said the move underscored that the government was on track to dissolve the House within four months, reaffirming that all political parties must now prepare for elections expected early next year.
“We’re all one family,” he said. “I’ve known Mr Phongsakorn for over 30 years — we once belonged to the same party, and I’ve always respected him as an elder brother. Mr Thawirat and Mr Tattirat are like my own nephews. We’ve known each other for a long time.”
When asked if the new recruits signalled an effort to strengthen the BJT’s presence in Nakhon Ratchasima, Mr Anutin said the party aimed to combine a new generation of leaders with seasoned politicians who understand local needs.
“Our party’s strength lies in its accessibility,” he said. “We listen to MPs and deliver what people need. That’s how we earn and keep the public’s trust.”
On whether more MPs from other parties would join, Mr Anutin said the BJT remained open to anyone committed to serving the nation.
“We don’t discriminate or set restrictions,” he said. “Anyone dedicated to public service, free from personal gain or ethical problems, is welcome.”
Asked if the BJT aimed to emerge from the next poll as the biggest political party, Mr Anutin said the focus was on connecting policies with the people through local candidates.
“Many MPs have told me in parliament they like our policies and want to join next time. If someone has the trust of the people and integrity, we’ll gladly welcome them,” he said.
Mr Anutin added that the current wave of political movement was a healthy sign of competition.
“Pheu Thai has just launched its team of MPs — that’s good. Other parties like the People’s Party, Kla-Tham, and the Democrats are also regrouping. This benefits democracy. Every party must keep improving its policies and strategies for the people’s benefit,” he said.
Mr Kosol told reporters he was unsure whether more Pheu Thai MPs would follow suit, but said that former Pheu Thai MP Noppadon Patama, his relative, had also been invited but had not made a decision yet due to family commitments. He said he decided to join the BJT because of the mutual respect and open working style within the party.
“I feel comfortable here. Mr Anutin showed me respect and invited me to work together in the future,” Mr Kosol said, adding that while he remains a sitting Pheu Thai MP for now, he was expressing his intention to contest the next election under BJT’s banner.