PM Confident 400-Billion-Baht Emergency Decree Won't Violate Constitution, Money Goes Directly to People—Not About Popularity

Prime Minister Anupthon Chanyaweerakul confirmed on May 26 from France that he has reviewed the legal clarification for the 400-billion-baht emergency decree and is confident it does not violate the Constitution. He stressed that the borrowing is domestic with low interest rates and will deliver funds directly to citizens to stimulate the economy and increase liquidity—not to boost government popularity, since the government's popularity was already established on February 8.

The PM emphasized that every baht from this emergency decree goes directly to the people, not to any government agency or ministry for infrastructure projects that would take years to show results. Instead, the funds aim to stimulate the economy and provide financial security. He noted that the government's decision to borrow is beneficial to all parties: banks can lend from their massive deposit reserves, and lenders are confident the loan is not at risk since they agreed to it. The government received favorable long-term borrowing terms over 9-10 years at very low interest rates.

The PM explained that interest payments will be offset through tax revenue and economic circulation generated by citizens' spending, so the government can repay comfortably without worrying about foreign exchange rates. He assured that every baht will reach the people directly—a direct transfer from government to its citizens—with no leakage or intermediaries.

When asked if he is confident there will be no problems after review, the PM said the government will not presume how the Constitutional Court will rule, but is confident the decree underwent thorough legal scrutiny before issuance. He stated the government has no concerns about violating any laws or the Constitution, as the decree is appropriate with favorable terms that are all positive factors. The primary beneficiary of this action will be the people.