Bangkok: Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has voiced strong criticism against the Poker-Khao Kradong project, highlighting its lack of timely support for villagers affected by the ongoing crisis on the Thai-Cambodian border. He questioned the efficiency of the 500,000 baht budget allocation for the districts, expressing concerns over the slow disbursement of funds intended to aid those in need. Chaichanok Chidchob, a fellow Bhumjaithai Party MP, also urged the government to prioritize addressing these issues, emphasizing that this is not a political game but a pressing humanitarian concern.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Nan Boonthida Somchai, MP for Ubon Ratchathani and spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai Party, shared that the party’s MPs and members have been actively providing assistance to people in evacuation centers as well as soldiers and local leaders. Despite submitting inquiries to the Prime Minister regarding the care of people in evacuation zones, the disbursement of funds remains unclear. Ms. Thirat Samretwanit, Deputy Minister of Interior, pointed out that disbursement regulations have not been defined clearly, posing challenges for local officials tasked with fund distribution.

Siripong Angkasakulkiat emphasized that the Cabinet’s approval of an additional 8-10 million baht was due to the efforts of the Bhumjaithai MPs. However, the lack of clarity regarding fund disbursement has resulted in evacuation centers relying heavily on donations. The ongoing uncertainty has left many centers closed and residents in limbo, unable to return home. Siripong urged the government and Ministry of Interior to take swift action, noting that the situation has persisted for over ten days without resolution.

Meanwhile, Ms. Phakamas highlighted the financial strain on local authorities in Surin Province and other areas, who have been unable to reclaim funds used for initial relief efforts following the 100 million baht grant. She called for retroactive compensation to support ongoing care for migrants.

Chaichanok Chidchob addressed the broader issues along the Thai-Cambodian border, emphasizing the active presence of Bhumjaithai Party MPs from the onset of the crisis. He expressed concern over the government’s lack of preparedness for emergencies and the impact of budget allocation issues. During a parliamentary session, Chaichanok urged government officials to address the real problems faced by citizens, stressing that their concerns are genuine and not politically motivated.

“If you’re concerned about the people, you need to find the facts. You need to come down and look at the problem,” Chaichanok stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to prevent further hardship for those affected.