Bangkok: The Prime Minister insisted, "This is not a populist government," but there is still hope for "Thai Help Thai Plus," after reviewing the budget first. Anutin Charnvirakul did not rule out extending the "Thai Help Thai Plus" program next quarter, citing budget and economic conditions as factors. He emphasized that the government focuses on empowering people to be self-reliant, not on populist policies.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed feedback regarding the continuation of the state welfare card program in the next quarter, stating that anything beneficial to the people must be considered, but appropriateness to the economic situation and budget must be taken into account. He affirmed that this government is not a populist government, but a government that empowers everyone to stand on their own two feet.
Regarding the public reaction to the "Thai Helps Thai Plus 60-40" project, the Prime Minister responded by asking the reporters, "Have you used it? Do you like it? If you like it, please speak up about it!"
When asked about the NIDA poll results showing that the public perceives the government's efforts as stimulating the economy, but are still hesitant to support it, the Prime Minister said that it's alright because there are still three years to consider the government's sincerity and intentions. However, it ultimately depends on the public's trust. We must work as hard as possible.
Regarding future projects, such as the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" Phase 2, and whether the amount could be increased beyond 200 baht per day, the Prime Minister stated that this question should be directed to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha.
Anutin said that whether or not the local government exam cheating scandal will be resolved this week should be asked of the Minister of Interior, emphasizing that the government has done everything it should have done.
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the progress of the investigation into corruption in local government examinations, stating that it is already complete. All processes, including accusations, prosecution, and serious disciplinary investigations, are in place. The cancellation of the exam results has also been carried out. The next step is to expand the investigation to those involved, which is proceeding according to procedure. He emphasized that the government has taken all necessary steps. Regarding whether the case will be concluded this week, he suggested asking the Minister of Interior (M.O. 4), as this is the Minister of Interior (M.O. 1).
Anutin is unfazed by the no-confidence debate, saying he doesn't need bodyguards and insisting the government hasn't done anything wrong. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul commented on the opposition's planned no-confidence motion against the government in August, stating that it was normal and commended the opposition for fulfilling their oversight role. He added that as long as the government doesn't commit any wrongdoing, there's nothing to worry about, and that this government hasn't done anything wrong.
Regarding the possibility of the opposition raising the issue of collusion among Senators during the no-confidence debate, Mr. Anutin questioned how such collusion could relate to the debate on the government, stating that he didn't see any connection. He noted that the Senate election will take place in 2024, while this government will assume office on April 1, 2026. He added that there are no restrictions on discussing irrelevant topics during the debate; anyone can say whatever they want. However, the government is not involved, and there is no "bodyguard" protecting the Cabinet.
While the People's Party is preparing to release additional evidence in the special Senate collusion case on August 4th, the opposition should handle that. As for how they will respond, that should be left to those responsible. The government has no involvement with the Senate. Regarding the complaint, Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont, director of the Internet for People's Law Project (iLaw), is handling it through his lawyer, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, a Bhumjaithai Party list MP.
Regarding the nomination of Clinical Professor Dr. Saran Boonbaichaiyapruk, Chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), for disqualification, it was emphasized that all procedures were followed according to the law. The Prime Minister has instructed Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan, in charge of legal affairs, to thoroughly review all relevant steps.