Newin's brother 'is free to go'

Saksayam

"If he can't stand [working with the government], he doesn't have to. If he can't stand it, [the government] will not force him to," the prime minister said.

Abhisit said Saksayam's supervisors should make him realise the conditions and reasons for his work. He should have considered the big picture and limitations.

"If [Saksayam] doesn't walk the right path, I'm not forcing him to," Abhisit said.

Abhisit was reacting to Saksayam's remark that the coalition parties' second defeat to Pheu Thai candidates in by-elections last month would make the parties stick together more tightly.

Meanwhile, the coalition parties still had to tolerate and join the government as it waited for the 2010 budget and Bt800 billion loan.

Saksayam heads the support team for Interior Minister Chaovarat Chanweerakul, the Bhum Jai Thai leader.

Newin reportedly said to a close aide that if Saksayam had made the remarks as reported, he deserved Abhisit's harsh words.

Newin reportedly said he would talk to Abhisit to reach an understanding.

Bhum Jai Thai spokesman Supachai Jaisamut said he had asked Saksayam about his remarks and learned that he had been "just joking" with reporters.

"I assure you that our party works with determination and without any conditions," Supachai said.