Sattharumya Condemns 'Disgusting' Move by Bhumjaithai Party Using Social Security to Stir Nationalist Sentiment

On February 1, 2026 - Mr. Sattharumya Thammabusadee, a Social Security committee member representing insured persons, addressed claims about a policy involving foreign workers in the Social Security board. Sattharumya emphasized that the Progressive Social Security team never had a policy allowing foreign workers to run for election to the Social Security board. He confirmed this through policy documents, campaign leaflets, and communication posts from 2023. While they had discussed the issue publicly during the team's launch and received input from migrant worker rights networks, the proposal was ultimately removed and not used in campaign materials or submitted to the Election Commission. He argued that the proposal was impossible under Thai legal restrictions. Sattharumya explained that their previous campaign policy allowing migrant workers in the Social Security system who contribute according to conditions to vote for the board was based on standard international practices used in pension funds and labor management funds in countries like Germany and Luxembourg. Currently, Thailand has numerous migrant workers driving the economy and contributing to social security, not just from neighboring countries but from around the world, including America and Europe. Sattharumya firmly stated that in 2026, they cannot implement such a policy due to Thailand's racial limitations. He accused the Bhumjaithai Party of diverting attention by using Social Security to stir nationalist sentiments, potentially to gain political advantage before the upcoming election. "Social Security has no political color," he declared. "If the fund is good, the quality of life for 25 million people in the system improves, regardless of party support. If they want popularity, they should address corruption within Social Security instead of creating divisive nationalist rhetoric." He challenged the party to focus on reforming Social Security, supporting the CARE pension formula, and restoring fairness to the people.