Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's popularity has significantly decreased, falling behind opposition leader Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, according to a recent Nida Poll. The poll, conducted between September 18-23, 2026, by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), showed Anutin's support dropping to 13.76% from 21.68% in the previous quarter and 29.40% in the first quarter of 2026. This marks a continuous decline over three consecutive quarters, totaling a 15.64% drop in his approval rating.
Conversely, Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, although still the most preferred political figure, also saw his support decline from 26.08% to 24.72% in the latest poll. However, the People's Party itself experienced an increase in popularity, rising to 35.40% from 34.80% in the previous quarter. The Pheu Thai Party also saw continuous gains, increasing to 18.44% from 16.84% in the second quarter and 12.04% in the first quarter, marking a 6.4% increase over three quarters.
The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Prime Minister Anutin, suffered a substantial drop in party popularity, falling to 12.08%. This decline is attributed to various factors, including dissatisfaction over revised eligibility requirements for the state welfare card scheme, which impacted lower-income groups and traditional supporters. Economic hardships, delayed relief measures, and several controversies, such as a local government recruitment examination corruption scandal and the Khao Kradong land dispute, have also contributed to the waning public confidence. Despite these issues, political analysts do not foresee an immediate threat to the coalition government's parliamentary majority, as opposition parties remain divided.
Anutin has recently warned underperforming cabinet ministers to produce results and communicate their work more effectively, signaling internal pressure within the government. Commerce Minister Supajee Suthumpun remains a popular figure due to her perceived competence and lack of scandal. Experts suggest that to restore public support, the government needs to demonstrate tangible progress on corruption investigations, enhance accountability in state agencies, and implement policies that directly benefit ordinary households.
