Nattapong Pushes Government to Establish Special Committee to Audit 400 Billion Baht Loan Decree—No Obstacles if There's No Hidden Agenda

At 1:00 p.m. on May 14, 2025, at Parliament, Nattapong Rueangpanya, Pheu Thai party list MP and party leader, announced his request for the government to agree to establish a special committee to audit spending under the 400 billion baht loan decree. He stated that an urgent written motion has already been submitted.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphas responded in parliamentary debate that the screening committee is proceeding with work and will submit projects to the cabinet for approval within 1-2 weeks to accelerate spending.

"Therefore, the government has no other valid reason—unless it deliberately intends to conceal or hide budget details from transparent parliamentary scrutiny—to obstruct establishing this special committee," Nattapong said. He noted that during the COVID period, similar loan decrees were also subject to special committee oversight.

When asked what happens if the committee is not established, Nattapong explained the motion is urgent and will be considered for the parliamentary agenda. It's expected next week, though if all parties agree, an oral motion could be voted on immediately. He dismissed arguments to wait until spending occurs before establishing oversight, noting Parliament has authority to review from the moment a decree is submitted.

When asked if existing standing committees cannot perform this function, Nattapong said while standing committees have broader representation, they want the 400 billion baht loan decree examined with maximum thoroughness. He argued that a special committee with full representation—including from the executive branch—is necessary given Thailand's constrained fiscal situation and the critical need for targeted spending.