Bangkok: Teng voiced strong criticism against the government’s handling of the 2016 budget, particularly targeting the second and third readings for their perceived lack of depth and thoroughness. He highlighted that a significant portion of the budget was allocated to building construction, road construction, and canal digging. While he did not oppose the distribution of the budget to local administrative organizations, he expressed concerns over potential exchanges of benefits due to the upcoming election.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, a party-list MP and leader of the Prachachon Party, echoed these sentiments during his address on the 2026 Budget Bill. He criticized the government’s budget preparations, noting a reduction by 8.9 billion baht, which was reallocated to regular expenditures like civil servant salaries and health insurance. This decision, he argued, led to a budget shortfall.
Mr. Natthaphong further criticized the allocation of the investment budget, noting that a significant portion was directed towards infrastructure projects rather than future-oriented investments. He praised the government for not wholly transferring the budget to the central fund but expressed concerns over amendments related to the Social Security Fund and the Orange Line.
Addressing potential budget cuts in key ministries, Mr. Natthaphong stated that he was not opposed to amendments benefiting local administrative organizations, provided they were straightforward and aligned with local government missions. However, he warned against any behind-the-scenes coordination, especially given the proximity to elections.
On military expenditure, Mr. Natthaphong emphasized the need for a modern military focused on national defense. He advocated for case-by-case consideration of military equipment purchases, ensuring only necessary items were approved.
When questioned about corruption during committee deliberations, Mr. Natthaphong noted several suspicious elements, including the refusal of live broadcasts and restricted access to subcommittee meetings. He called for transparency to restore public trust in the budget process.
Mr. Natthaphong also prepared a comprehensive debate strategy for the budget’s second reading, ensuring thorough scrutiny. He stressed the importance of the government managing its MPs to secure a quorum, warning that failure to pass the budget could impair governance.
Ms. Sirikanya Tansakul, another party-list MP, highlighted concerns regarding the budget’s capacity to address the impact of US tariffs. She noted the absence of Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira during crucial deliberations and questioned the government’s backup plans.
Ms. Sirikanya concluded that the government might need to enact a loan decree and raise the public debt ceiling to address the escalating trade war, as fiscal policy options appeared limited.