Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed concerns about delays in budget disbursement in border areas, attributing the issue to a lack of government presence and oversight. He criticized the government for not visiting border areas, questioning how they could understand the problems if they aren’t present on the ground.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin highlighted that governors have reported the situation in detail, yet operational units lack guidelines for budget disbursement. He attributed the delays to the presence of the Bhumjaithai Party in these areas, raising concerns about the government’s responsiveness to the needs of border communities.
Anutin addressed the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, noting that villagers have not returned to their homes due to orders from the provincial governor to remain in shelters. He emphasized that the issues faced by the people in these areas have been inadequately addressed, as reported to him by the governor. Anutin stressed that although governors have reported these challenges, budget disbursement remains a complex issue.
He pointed out that the refugee camps are largely sustained by donated goods rather than government aid, warning that without public support, the situation would be more dire. Anutin criticized a report from the Ubon Ratchathani governor to Parliament as rambling and stressed the need for on-site intervention, noting the absence of Cabinet members.
Regarding budget disbursement, Anutin mentioned that funds have been transferred to districts but lack plans for distribution to relevant agencies. He expressed optimism about eventual success in disbursement but credited public generosity with mitigating greater chaos and suffering.
When questioned about the involvement of Mr. Bhumtham and the Bhumjaithai Party’s jurisdiction, Anutin dismissed concerns, asserting that local people are content and self-sufficient, with help from donations and military-organized activities. He reiterated the party’s focus on aiding those in need, regardless of political implications.