Bangkok: Sirikanya Tansakul, a parliamentarian and deputy leader of the People's Party, has raised concerns over the government's 400 billion baht loan decree, describing it as a haphazard and indiscriminate measure without proper screening. She revealed plans to discuss with opposition parties the possibility of submitting a petition to the Constitutional Court to interpret whether the decree violates the Constitution before its presentation to parliament on May 14.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sirikanya criticized the budget allocation for energy structure transition as non-urgent and suggested it be enacted as a separate law. She highlighted the government's "blind throwing" approach, insufficient screening processes, and ineffective relief measures, warning of the potential lack of funds to address a prolonged crisis. Prime Minister Veerayuth has been accused of rushing to spend 200 billion baht within four months in an attempt to gain popularity.
During the first Shadow Cabinet meeting of the People's Party, Ms. Sirikanya commented that the government's relief efforts, primarily through the "Half-Price" scheme, are broad-based and lack proper screening. This approach, she argued, could result in those truly in need not receiving assistance, while others who are less affected benefit.
Ms. Sirikanya questioned the government's strategy regarding the "Thai Help Thai Plus" project, which has nearly exhausted the approved loan amount in just four months. She expressed concern over the government's plans if the energy crisis persists, and energy prices remain high after this period. She suggested that the 200 billion baht allocated for economic restructuring is not urgent and should be legislated as an Act rather than through an emergency decree.
The People's Party is currently deliberating internally about filing a petition with the Constitutional Court regarding the loan decree. Discussions with the Democrat Party are anticipated as they seek support for the petition. Ms. Sirikanya emphasized the need for careful preparation ahead of the May 14th parliamentary debate on the loan bill.
Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, stressed the importance of ensuring the emergency decree on borrowing is not a haphazard or misleading scheme and includes a clear debt repayment plan. He concurred with Ms. Sirikanya's division of the budget into relief measures and investment for energy infrastructure transformation but argued that the latter could be enacted as a law.
Weerayuth Kanchuchat, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party, expressed concern over the urgency to spend 200 billion baht within four months. He questioned whether the government is genuinely preparing for a potential war or using the funds to regain popularity. He urged caution in the use of these funds to avoid exacerbating existing problems, deeming the rapid expenditure plan inappropriate for crisis management.