Influential political figure and Bhumjaithai’s de facto leader Newin Chidchob has voiced hope that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will continue leading the country for another four-year term following the next general election.
A vibrant and ceremonious atmosphere filled Chang Arena in Buri Ram’s Muang district on Saturday as Mr Newin, also executive chairman of Buriram United Football Club, hosted a lavish celebration for his 67th birthday.
The event drew a wide range of attendees, including senior figures from the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) and members of the governing coalition.
Mr Newin made a dramatic entrance at 9.29am, riding a motorcycle into the venue before paying respects to a statue of Lord Shiva at the entrance.
He was accompanied by his children — Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, along with Chidchanok, Chonchanok, and Chotchanok.
Adding to the significance of the occasion was the appearance of Saksayam Chidchob, former transport minister, and Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, former education minister — both younger brothers of Mr Newin — who had kept a low public profile in recent months.
At 10.50am, Mr Anutin arrived from Bangkok. Upon greeting him, Mr Newin embraced the prime minister warmly before leading him into the traditional Pa Kam Chang elephant blessing ceremony, a long-standing ritual in the Chidchob family lineage.
Attendees symbolically offered bananas to the elephants in a gesture believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. The ceremony also included a wrist-tying blessing (bai sri su kwan) led by a senior ritual master.
After receiving his own blessing, Mr Newin invited Mr Anutin forward. As the ritual master tied the thread around the prime minister’s wrist, Mr Newin offered a personal blessing for him to serve a full four-year term — prompting both men to laugh and embrace.
As the ceremony unfolded, Mr Newin was seen holding Mr Anutin’s hand steady throughout the ritual, ensuring the thread was tied properly.
While the blessing was being performed, Mr Newin was heard saying: “Tie it so he becomes prime minister for four years, wins the election, and brings peace and stability to the country.”
In response, Mr Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, downplayed speculation about his political future.
“Let’s just focus on getting through these four months first,” he said.
When asked about the likelihood of securing a second full term, Mr Anutin replied: “I am doing my very best in the role I’ve been entrusted with during these four months. What happens after that will depend entirely on the outcome of the next election.”
Responding to Mr Newin’s blessing and his suggestion Bhumjaithai should aim to win the next poll, Mr Anutin said: “Every party should aim for the best possible result. You can’t expect to win an election by doing nothing. You have to work hard, deliver tangible results, and earn the people’s trust.”
On Mr Newin’s remark that “whatever you do, ensure the country remains peaceful”, the prime minister responded: “Those who truly wish each other well will naturally offer kind and gracious words.”
He also extended birthday wishes to Mr Newin, saying: “I wish him longevity and continued strength. He’s 67 now — may he have many more healthy and prosperous years ahead.”
Prominent members of the Bhumjaithai Party, including Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum, and Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, also attended the event.