Sirikanya Slams 400-Billion-Baht Loan Decree as Handout That Won't Help Vulnerable Groups; Opposition Considers Constitutional Court Challenge

On May 6, 2569 at Parliament, Sirikanya Tansukul, a Pheu Thai party list MP and deputy party leader, briefed reporters on her shadow cabinet meeting regarding the government's proposed 400-billion-baht emergency decree. She criticized the decree for containing no provisions to assist vulnerable populations, instead channeling 200 billion baht into the 'Buy Thai' cash transfer program, which lacks proper screening mechanisms. This creates the absurd situation where those who truly need help may not receive it, while those receiving aid may not actually be in need.

Sirikanya noted that the previous 'Thailand Helping Thailand Plus' program nearly exhausted its budget within four months, raising questions about whether the government believes the global crisis will end soon. She warned that if the crisis persists beyond four months and energy prices remain high, new borrowing may be required, suggesting this loan round could be the last possible one given current constraints.

Regarding the other 200 billion baht earmarked for economic restructuring, Sirikanya argued these funds should be allocated through a formal law rather than an emergency decree, as there appears to be no urgent justification for bypass normal legislative procedures.

When asked about filing a Constitutional Court petition, Sirikanya said the party is consulting internally and is aware the Democrat Party (Pheu Chai) also wants to request an interpretation ruling. Party coordination is needed before submission to ensure alignment on key issues.

Party Leader Nathpong Ruengpanyawit emphasized that the critical concern is ensuring the loan decree doesn't become wasteful spending, hidden subsidies, or blank checks, and that it includes clear debt management plans. He criticized the government for apparently trying to exploit constitutional loopholes rather than transparently distinguishing urgent measures requiring emergency decrees from non-urgent items that should follow normal legislative processes.

Deputy Party Leader Weerayut Kanchuchat expressed concern about the government's plan to spend 200 billion baht within four months. He questioned whether the government is genuinely preparing for the crisis or simply borrowing to boost fading political popularity and win back electoral support. He cautioned that if the government is truly crisis-prepared and wants to avoid future debt accumulation, it must use borrowed funds wisely.