Govt's back against the wall over digital wallet scheme - Move Forward MP

13 Sept 11:35 Key points summarised by AI

The government confronts significant funding challenges for its 500-billion-baht digital wallet scheme, with Move Forward MP Sirikanya Tansakul noting repeated delays and five revisions to its details.
Sirikanya revealed the government's plan to fund the scheme through the 2024 Central Fund, the 2025 fiscal budget, and borrowing from the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC).
Concerns were raised over the cabinet's decision to increase the 2025 fiscal budget to 3.75 trillion baht and boost deficit borrowing by 150 billion baht, potentially to finance the digital wallet.
The MP also highlighted a potential 'trick' to use 2024 funds in the next fiscal year via a Revolving Fund, possibly the State Welfare Fund, raising questions about financial transparency.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat urged opposition MPs to cease speculation, advising them to await the scheme's policy committee meeting next Wednesday for final decisions on funding and disbursement.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

18 Oct 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.