BANGKOK, THAILAND – A prominent lawmaker has sharply criticized Thailand’s election commission for what he calls an “unprecedented waste” of taxpayer money.
During a visit to the Election Commission’s investigative department, Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, chairman of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, encountered stacks of nearly new desks and chairs. He was informed by staff that these items were being prepared for disposal and auction, despite being in excellent condition. This practice, he discovered, was to make way for costly new acquisitions for a new board.
Further information provided by officials revealed that eight Mercedes-Benz official vehicles are also slated for auction. These cars, reportedly in pristine, like-new condition, are to be sold to finance the purchase of brand-new sedans. The justification for this expenditure is to ceremonially welcome the upcoming leadership of the Election Commission.
Police General Criticizes Waste of Taxpayer Money
Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth did not hide his anger during an impromptu interview at the scene. He expressed disbelief at the commission’s handling of the national budget.
“I find it to be the greatest waste of the citizens’ tax money. Is this how the Election Commission squanders the nation’s budget? Do they have no conscience that these tables, chairs, and luxury cars are all paid for by the sweat of the people?”
he stated. He condemned an organizational culture that prioritizes unnecessary replacements during leadership transitions, disregarding economic feasibility and the country’s financial situation.
Offices Recosted for a New Beginning
The perceived unnecessary spending extends beyond furniture and vehicles. It was also reported that the commission’s offices were ordered to be repainted entirely. This refurbishment is intended to celebrate the imminent arrival of the new leadership.
For the Seri Ruam Thai Party chairman, this represents a prime example of a lack of economic awareness, especially given the nation’s current financial strain. He believes this behavior reflects a flawed organizational culture where new leadership necessitates a complete overhaul of surroundings rather than a focus on cost-efficiency.
Warning to All Agency Leaders
Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth issued a stern warning to the agency’s leadership.
“It’s not that when a new Election Commission comes in, they must have brand-new Mercedes-Benz cars and the office rooms must be completely repainted. I want to remind all leaders and those involved in the Election Commission to look back at the hardships of the people and not to waste the state budget as they please.”
He appealed urgently to those responsible to acknowledge the plight of the struggling populace instead of indulging in arbitrary spending of the national budget. The source for this report was Thairath.