A gardener proudly displays a message on his phone, confirming his registration for the digital wallet scheme, outside Government House on Aug 1. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu). What might seem like a simple snapshot has gigantic implications for the nation. You see, this digital wallet handout scheme is the Pheu Thai-led government’s flagship initiative to invigorate the economy. And whether or not Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin retains his position, this scheme is expected to steam ahead full throttle.
Come Wednesday, all eyes will be on the Constitutional Court, as it determines Srettha’s fate following his controversial decision to appoint Pichit Chuenban, an ex-convict, as a cabinet minister. This decision rubbed many the wrong way, as Pichit was previously convicted of contempt of court for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials in 2008. The petition seeking Srettha’s ouster was filed in May by a group of 40 former senators but political pundits believe the digital wallet project will continue regardless of the verdict.
According to Somjai Phagaphasvivat, an independent political and economic analyst, the registration for the digital wallet scheme has already kicked off and the handouts are expected to commence in the fourth quarter. “Even if Srettha loses his job, this policy remains unchanged,” Somjai assures. The supplementary bill to increase the fiscal budget by 122 billion baht, designed to partially fund this initiative, breezed through all three readings in the Upper House.
Somjai also speculates on potential successors to Srettha. If Srettha were to be ousted, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin Charnvirakul, might step into his shoes. “Pheu Thai has two other candidates for prime minister, but one is not in good health and the other may be too young,” he explains.
Interestingly, the political landscape is a web of alliances and rivalries. Previous tensions between the cannabis-friendly Bhumjaithai and the more retributive Pheu Thai have complicated things. Recently, Srettha ordered a cannabis control bill to be tabled before parliament, a move perceived by many as an olive branch to Bhumjaithai. According to political observers, this could be an attempt to quell the discontent brewing between the two parties over the cannabis policy.
In parallel, Varakorn Samakoses, a prominent economist, echoes Somjai’s sentiments. He points out that the digital wallet handout will likely persist if the new prime minister hails from Pheu Thai. “However, uncertainty looms if the new leader comes from another coalition party,” he cautions. He also sheds light on how the government plans to bankroll the 450 billion baht project. Budgets for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 will be tapped, with allocations coming from central and additional budgets.
The supplementary bill earmarking 122 billion baht for the current fiscal year sailed through all readings in the Upper House on Aug 6. While 10 billion will come from government revenue, the remainder will be borrowed. Srettha defended the move, stating the urgency to stimulate the economy precludes waiting for the fiscal budget of 2025.
Danuporn Punnakanta, Pheu Thai’s spokesperson, reinforces that the digital wallet scheme is intrinsic to the party’s promise to voters and will continue unabated, irrespective of Srettha’s fate. “The digital wallet is our scheme and forms a crucial part of our election campaign pledge,” Danuporn asserts.
Meanwhile, Siripong Angkhasakulkiat, a deputy Bhumjaithai leader, ensures that their party has no qualms with the scheme. A Bhumjaithai source divulges that the handout might be riskier to push if the new PM hails from another coalition party, citing potential legal hurdles flagged by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).
So, as political intrigue snakes through the corridors of power, one thing appears steadfast: the digital wallet scheme. Pheu Thai’s commitment to roll out this handout rings clear, illustrating political gamesmanship and economic strategy in a high-stakes dance. Will the digital wallet fill the gap? Only time will tell, but as of now, the wheels are very much in motion.
This digital wallet scheme sounds like a great initiative to help the economy. I truly hope it goes through smoothly!
But Chris, what about the corruption involved? Appointing Pichit Chuenban was a scandalous decision.
I get that, Jen. But shouldn’t we focus on the benefits for the population rather than just political controversies?
Chris, corruption erodes trust in any initiative. If the leadership is corrupt, how can we trust the scheme will benefit the people?
I agree with Jen95. We should hold our leaders accountable. No point in a digital wallet if the system is compromised!
This sounds like socialism to me. Giving away money doesn’t solve economic problems; it only makes people lazy.
DannyBoy, it’s not about laziness. People need immediate economic relief to survive!
DannyBoy, that’s a very narrow view. Digital wallets can modernize the economy and increase efficiency.
The digital wallet scheme can be a game-changer if implemented correctly. However, the legal hurdles could turn this into a major fiasco.
I’m skeptical. Even if the scheme is a good idea, I don’t trust politicians to manage it without ulterior motives.
That’s a valid point, Lily. Transparency and accountability will be key to its success.
Can we also talk about the environmental impact? This initiative needs to consider green solutions!
Interesting angle, EcoWarrior. How can a digital wallet contribute to a greener planet?
TechGeek, digital wallets reduce the need for paper money and streamline transactions, which can cut down on carbon emissions from physical banking.
Does anyone else feel like this is just a distraction from the real issues plaguing the government right now?
Absolutely, Nina. This could be a ploy to divert attention from Srettha’s legal troubles.
Or maybe it’s just a step towards modernizing our economy. Not everything has to be a conspiracy.
Maya, true. But the timing is definitely fishy.
I think the real challenge will be ensuring that the funds are distributed fairly and not siphoned off by corrupt officials.
The success of this scheme hinges on public trust, which is hard to come by when there are so many controversies involved.
Exactly, Arun. If people don’t trust the government, this whole initiative could backfire.
Has anyone thought about the potential for cybercrime? Digital wallets could be a hacker’s paradise.
Good point, Dave. Cybersecurity measures better be top-notch or this will be a disaster.
Cybercrime is a real concern. Hopefully, they’ll invest in robust security protocols.
I’m more worried about how this scheme will be funded. Borrowing more money isn’t always the best solution.
Why is everyone focusing on Srettha? The digital wallet is a much-needed reform irrespective of who’s in power.
What if the new PM scraps the project entirely? All this effort would be wasted.
Felix, you’re right. Political instability makes the future of this scheme uncertain.
I’m curious to see how blockchain technology could be integrated into this digital wallet scheme. It could add a layer of security.
Why hasn’t anyone mentioned the economic boost this could give to small businesses? A digital wallet could really help them thrive.
Agreed, Olivia. Small businesses could benefit significantly from easier transactions.
I hope they provide adequate infrastructure and education for everyone to use this digital scheme effectively.
It’s astonishing how much backlash this scheme is getting. Can’t we see the long-term benefits for our country’s economy?
Ahmed, long-term benefits are great, but short-term issues like corruption and cybercrime are genuine concerns.