The unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin from his prime ministerial role has cast a long shadow over the well-publicized digital wallet initiative, throwing its future into a vortex of uncertainty. Mixed messages are emanating from the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the caretaker cabinet, leaving the populace to wonder about the flagship policy’s fate. Meanwhile, those who eagerly registered for the 10,000-baht digital handout are now grappling with the fear that their personal data might be stolen or misused.
The hammer came down on Mr. Srettha on Wednesday. A ruling from the Constitutional Court not only ended his tenure but also dismantled the entire cabinet, reducing ministers to mere caretakers. Now, the digital wallet’s fate hinges on the new administration, with the Pheu Thai Party advocating for either Paetongtarn Shinawatra or former justice minister Chaikasem Nitisiri to step into Srettha’s shoes.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat attempted to shed some light on the situation yesterday, iterating that any modification to the digital handout scheme would need the new cabinet’s stamp of approval.
“We need to wait for the new government to be in place and deliver its policy statement. Only then will we know for certain if there will be any change [to the digital handout plan],” Mr. Julapun noted. He admitted Mr. Srettha’s exit would inevitably delay the scheme’s roll-out along with other pivotal projects. The decision to press on with the handout programme now rests solely in the hands of Pheu Thai’s next move.
Adding to the chorus of concerns was Democrat Party MP for Phatthalung, Romtham Kham-urak, who voiced the public’s unease over their personal data’s safety. He urged acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai to offer assurances that this data wouldn’t fall into the wrong hands, especially if the scheme, initially set for a November launch, gets shelved.
When pressed on the future of the digital wallet scheme, caretaker Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira sidestepped, stating that the decision wasn’t his territory to navigate. Meanwhile, the secretary-general of the Council of State, Pakorn Nilprapan, advised pausing the scheme in light of Mr. Srettha’s dismissal.
Nevertheless, unwavering supporters remain within the party ranks. Pheu Thai’s secretary-general, Sorawong Thienthong, affirmed that the digital money giveaway would proceed, insisting the party’s steadfast commitment to its flagship policy remains unswayed. According to him, none of Pheu Thai’s coalition partners oppose the initiative.
On the streets, opinions are far from unified. The Bangkok Post spoke to numerous individuals, many of whom have lost faith in the digital wallet scheme ever resuming under a new prime minister. Nakhon Ratchasima local, Lert Abphakwan, expressed deep skepticism, claiming the scheme was doomed from day one. Similarly, Arnon Inpanpanao, a motorcycle taxi driver in Korat, felt the handout should continue but observed that most people would prefer cold hard cash over digital currency.
“I feel bad for those who bought new smartphones just to register for the digital wallet scheme,” Arnon lamented.
In Buri Ram, apprehension is running equally high. Vendors like Ben, 59, and Ya, 61, expressed their hope that the scheme would help alleviate household debts. In Khon Kaen’s Muang district, Samrerng Rodthong, 46, resignedly commented that the scheme would vanish alongside Mr. Srettha.
However, not everyone feels entirely disillusioned. In Si Sa Ket, residents like Thatchanok Pimthong, 52, of Wang Hin district, remain warily hopeful but critical. Thatchanok pointed out the programme seemed skewed to benefit large businesses over small vendors like herself. “Policies may come across as attractive, but they are useless if they are not practical,” she remarked.
As the days unfold, all eyes will be on the new government, waiting to see if they will resurrect the digital wallet dream or let it fade into the annals of unfulfilled political promises. Until then, the public remains on tenterhooks, hoping for clarity and concrete decisions.
I think this whole digital wallet thing was doomed from the start. Who thought it was a good idea to rely on technology that many people can’t even afford?
Not everyone lives in the dark ages, John. Digital wallets are the future, and Pheu Thai was forward-thinking enough to realize that.
But what about the people who can’t keep up? Shouldn’t policies consider everyone, not just those with the latest gadgets?
Exactly, Patricia. There’s a fine line between innovation and exclusion.
I can’t believe Srettha is out! This is going to mess up so many plans. I was counting on that 10,000-baht!
Unfortunately, politics don’t always go as planned. Looks like you’ll have to wait even longer now.
It’s not just about the money, though. The whole concept was to modernize the economy.
Modernize, sure, but people need concrete help now. Empty promises won’t fill stomachs.
Personal data at risk? Sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. How can they assure us our information is safe?
Agree. The government’s track record on cybersecurity isn’t exactly stellar.
I really hope the new government continues with the digital wallet. My family could really use that money right now.
Paetongtarn Shinawatra might actually do a better job than Srettha. Sometimes a change in leadership can bring new energy.
Or it could bring further delays and confusion. New leadership means starting from scratch in many ways.
True, but sometimes risks are worth taking. Can’t get worse, can it?
Why are people skeptical about digital currency? Haven’t they seen how it’s revolutionizing economies worldwide?
Because not everyone understands or trusts these new technologies. Education on digital financial tools is severely lacking.
That’s what the government should focus on, then. Spread awareness and knowledge.
Politics as usual in Thailand. Promises made, promises broken.
It’s a shame that Mr. Srettha’s initiative is on hold. I had hoped this would finally help us vendors.
New smartphones just for this? What a waste of money and effort.
I think the delay is a blessing in disguise. They need to refine the program so it actually works.
The digital wallet would have been a game-changer. Here’s hoping the next PM keeps it alive.
I doubt any new administration will dare cancel such a visible project. Too politically risky.
This is heartbreaking for those who really depended on that money. The wait continues…again.
Policies are useless if they’re not practical. Spot on, Thatchanok!
It might be politically risky to cancel, but integrating it effectively presents a whole different challenge.
All eyes on the new government now. The pressure is really on them to deliver.