10,000-baht scheme will go ahead: PM’s future ‘baht’ a problem

The Government of Thailand confirmed that the implementation of the 10,000-baht digital money handout scheme will proceed regardless of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s political future. This assurance comes amid concerns over the Thai premier’s potential dismissal due to a legal challenge.

The 62 year old Thai PM’s position is under scrutiny due to a motion submitted by 40 senators. They argue that appointing Pichit Chuenban, an ex-convict, as a PM’s Office Minister violates the constitution. Pichit was convicted of contempt of court in 2008 for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials while representing former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in a contentious land case.

Despite the looming possibility of PM Srettha’s dismissal, he and PM’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai have reassured the public that the digital handout scheme will be implemented as planned. The Constitutional Court is set to decide on the Thai PM’s fate tomorrow.

The Bangkok-born Srettha urged the public not to be misled by rumours, emphasising that the digital handout scheme will continue regardless of the court’s ruling.

“Those who still have doubts over this stimulus programme should seek out further information through the 1111 hotline, instead of believing rumours which are circulating online right now.”

Additionally, The Thai PM requested the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) to address the spread of false information related to the scheme.

House approval

Jiraporn, who also serves as a Deputy Leader of the Pheu Thai Party, expressed confidence in the PM’s chances of retaining his position. She reiterated that the policy would move forward regardless of the court’s decision. Jiraporn highlighted the recent approval by the House to increase the budget for the current fiscal year by 122 billion baht to partially fund the handout scheme.

“Honestly, Pheu Thai isn’t preparing to find anyone to replace Srettha. All the party is focusing on now is implementing its policies, in particular the digital handout scheme, to help people deal with problems they are encountering.”

In a related development, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai postponed the registration of shops interested in participating in the digital handout scheme, which was scheduled to begin today. Phumtham stated that the government needs to prioritise the registration of other eligible recipients for the time being.

The digital money handout scheme aims to provide financial relief to citizens facing economic challenges. The initiative, which involves distributing 10,000 baht digitally to eligible recipients, is part of the government’s broader efforts to stimulate the economy and support those in need. Despite the political turmoil, officials remain committed to rolling out the scheme as planned, reported Bangkok Post