Bangkok: In a heated parliamentary session, Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, the first deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, expressed his frustration regarding the scrutiny and criticism of the parliamentary budget. He explained that the budget could indeed be audited and emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency.

According to Thai News Agency, the controversy arose when Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, an MP from the Prachachon Party, highlighted concerns about potential misuse and corruption within the parliamentary budget, as initially raised by Mr. Panus Wacharasindhu, another MP from the same party. The issue has garnered significant media attention over recent days, prompting Mr. Pichet to address these concerns directly.

Mr. Pichet clarified that the budget for the House of Representatives had not yet been passed and that its approval rested with a special committee. He stressed the importance of the legislative branch, highlighting that it received a budget of over 8 billion baht in 2026, with allocations of over 6 billion for the House of Representatives and 2 billion for the Senate. He explained the challenges faced in maintaining the parliament building due to budget constraints and outlined the need for a balanced approach to infrastructural needs, such as parking facilities and the renovation of the Glass Pavilions.

Explaining the necessity of renovations, Mr. Pichet pointed out the dilapidated state of the Glass Pavilions and mentioned plans to set up a monument of King Rama VII, necessitating renovations to maintain aesthetic and functional balance. He assured that any budget spent would be open to scrutiny once received, emphasizing that this was a matter of national importance.

Ms. Rakchanok, while agreeing with the need for transparency, questioned the allocation of funds, particularly the 4.6 billion baht earmarked for parking, and advocated for accountability among those responsible for past oversights. She argued for more prudent spending, suggesting that simple improvements such as replacing chairs in the House of Representatives Budget Study and Monitoring Committee room could suffice rather than extensive renovations.

Both Mr. Pichet and Ms. Rakchanok emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary expenditures and called for a broader examination of budgets across all ministries. This exchange underscores the ongoing debate over fiscal responsibility and transparency within Thailand’s legislative processes.