Bangkok, Thailand – The opposition People’s Party (PP) has sharply criticized the government’s 400-billion-baht emergency loan decree.
PP Warns of Misallocation
The government approved the 400-billion-baht loan decree on Tuesday. The PP fears that 200 billion baht for direct energy crisis relief may not reach targets.
The other half could bypass parliamentary oversight, said opposition leader Parit Wacharasindhu.
Criticism of Thai Chuay Thai Plus
Parit Wacharasindhu said targeted help is needed, but the government program “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” appears too general.
“The most affected groups could end up empty-handed, especially if the ‘first come, first served’ principle applies.”
said Parit Wacharasindhu, opposition leader.
The required 40 percent co-payment also faces resistance. Parit said rising costs and living expenses make such a model questionable, as it could weaken the goal of providing tangible relief.
Dispute Over the Second 200-Billion Block
The loan plan is divided into two blocks: 200 billion baht for public relief from the energy crisis and 200 billion baht for energy transition programs. Parit Wacharasindhu called the second part a possible “blank check”.
He noted that loan decrees must be urgent and unavoidable under the constitution. Energy transition programs, he argued, should be introduced via a law to allow thorough scrutiny.
Affected Groups Seek Dialogue
Parit Wacharasindhu said some groups could be left out of the aid, including people from the transport and fisheries sectors. These groups are scheduled to meet with the party’s shadow cabinet on Wednesday to discuss the effectiveness of government measures.
When asked about an appeal to the Constitutional Court, Parit said the party had not yet considered that step. However, he believes it possible that the second part of the plan does not meet the legal definition of urgency.
Economist Calls for Money Flow Into System
Varakorn Samakoses said that money must be injected into the system. No further detail on his assessment was given.