Bangkok: Supachai Jaisamut, a Bhumjaithai Party list MP, has been appointed as the chairman of the ad hoc committee tasked with monitoring loan disbursements under the Emergency Decree Authorizing the Ministry of Finance to Borrow Money to Address the Impact of the Energy Crisis and the National Energy Transition, B.E. 2569 (2026). The appointment was made during the committee's first meeting, which was nearly disrupted by disagreements over proportional representation in vice-chair positions.
According to Thai News Agency, the initial meeting, temporarily chaired by Mr. Suchart Thadathamrongvej from the Pheu Thai Party, involved a nomination process where Ms. Patida Tantiratananont nominated Mr. Supachai Jaisamut as chairman, and his nomination was approved. Tensions arose when Ms. Patita proposed two vice-chairpersons from her party, leading to objections from the opposition, who felt underrepresented. This led to a suggestion by Mr. Anusorn Thammajai from the People's Party for balanced representation from both the opposition and government.
Efforts to resolve the conflict included suggestions from Mr. Pai Lik of the Kla Tham Party and Mr. Chaichana Dechdecho of the Democrat Party, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation. Following a brief adjournment for discussions, a compromise was reached, resulting in the appointment of five vice-chairpersons, ensuring representation from both sides. The appointed vice-chairpersons include Ms. Nanthana Songprach, Mr. Phaophum Rojanasakul, Mr. Phanthil Nuamjerm, Mr. Pai Lik, and Mr. Chaichana Dechdecho.
The committee's spokespersons are Ms. Patita Tantiratananont and Mr. Suphachot Chaiyasat, while Mr. Kittichai Engchuan serves as the secretary. With the leadership structure settled, Mr. Supachai scheduled regular meetings for every Wednesday at 9:30 AM and expressed his commitment to performing his duties impartially.
The committee's first agenda involves reviewing the framework for loan disbursements, particularly focusing on the "Thai Help Thai Plus" project. Agencies from the Ministry of Finance, including the Fiscal Policy Office and the Public Debt Management Office, are expected to provide detailed explanations on the economic situation and project specifics in the upcoming meetings. The committee aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the utilization of the 200 billion baht framework allocated for the project.