The prime minister’s potential dismissal has stemmed from a controversial decision to appoint Pichit Chuenban, an ex-convict, as a PM’s Office Minister during the last cabinet reshuffle. A total of 40 senators submitted the motion for Mr. Srettha’s dismissal, arguing that appointing Pichit—an individual convicted of contempt of court for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials in a 2008 land case involving former PM Thaksin Shinawatra—was a clear violation of the charter.
Despite these clouds of contention, both Mr. Srettha and PM’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai assured the public that the digital handout policy would not be derailed. On Sunday, they firmly dismissed claims that the scheme would be in jeopardy if the court ruled against Mr. Srettha on August 14.
Addressing these concerns, Mr. Srettha advised the public to ignore the swirling rumors and to rely on verified information from the government’s 1111 hotline. “No matter what the court decides on August 14, the digital handout scheme will continue as planned. Those who still have doubts over this stimulus program should seek out further information through the 1111 hotline, instead of believing rumors circulating online right now,” he stated.
In an effort to quell misinformation, Mr. Srettha has requested the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) to address the rising number of malicious rumors related to the digital handout scheme. Ms. Jiraporn, who is also a deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party, reiterated the government’s confidence in Mr. Srettha’s ability to survive the verdict. She emphasized that the policy is on track, regardless of the court’s decision, underscoring that the House has recently approved a motion to boost the current fiscal year’s budget by 122 billion baht to help fund the scheme.
“Honestly, Pheu Thai isn’t preparing to find anyone to replace Mr. Srettha,” Ms. Jiraporn clarified. “All the party is focusing on now is implementing its policies, particularly the digital handout scheme, to help people deal with problems they are encountering.”
Adding another twist, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced the postponement of shop registrations eager to participate in the digital handout scheme, initially slated to begin on Monday. Mr. Phumtham explained that the government needs to focus on the registration of other eligible recipients for now.
As the political drama unfolds, one thing remains clear: The digital money handout scheme is a crucial policy that the government is determined to implement, despite the political turbulence. Whether Mr. Srettha remains in office or not, the initiative aims to provide immediate financial relief to people dealing with economic challenges, maintaining the government’s focus on rolling out its key policy to support its citizens.
This digital handout is just another way for the government to buy votes. It’s a complete waste of taxpayer money!
You have no idea what you’re talking about. There are people who really need this money to make ends meet.
Exactly! This stimulus might be a lifeline for many struggling families. Think about the bigger picture.
Even if people need it, the problem is the corruption in the execution. Trusting this government is like trusting a fox to guard the henhouse.
Prime Minister Srettha appointing an ex-convict is a clear violation of ethics. Why isn’t there more outrage over this?
Agreed! What kind of message does this send to the people about accountability?
Unfortunately, this is all too common in politics. People are getting numb to these scandals.
It’s sad but true, ChangM. Yet, we still have to call these actions out and demand better from our leaders.
Whether Srettha stays in office or not, the handout is essential for economic stability.
I don’t understand why the court ruling on Srettha should impact the handout scheme at all. The policy should stand on its own merits.
So, the government is pushing through with this handout even if Srettha is corrupt? What a joke.
Addressing corruption is important, but the handout isn’t solely about Srettha. It could help a lot of people in need.
Agreed, Sophie. Besides, oversight mechanisms can always be improved if there are concerns about misuse.
I can’t believe people are actually defending this handout scheme. It’s a gimmick and a huge waste of money.
It’s a short-term solution, but people need immediate help. Long-term plans can be developed alongside.
Exactly, Sara! And don’t forget, many governments around the world have used similar measures to support their citizens during tough times.
Has anyone considered the inflationary impact of this 10,000-baht handout? Basic economics, folks.
Isn’t it the government’s responsibility to ensure that people’s immediate needs are met? This handout is a step in the right direction.
It’s appalling to see how information is manipulated. The 1111 hotline is probably just another smokescreen.
The hotline might be a government tool, but not everyone trusts online rumors. Best to have verified information.
Why postpone shop registrations? It seems like another delaying tactic.
Maybe they need more time to organize everything. If it helps ensure smoother execution, why not?
Or maybe they are not as prepared as they claim. This whole thing seems rushed.
I don’t trust the government to handle this handout properly. Mismanagement is inevitable.
Government initiatives often face hurdles, but it’s about time they focus on the common folks’ needs.
Lars, this is the dilemma: balancing urgency with thorough planning. People need immediate support, yet long-term efficacy should not be ignored.
True, but inaction isn’t an option either. They need to do something to support those who are suffering right now.
Maybe the court ruling will help clean up this messy situation. Srettha’s ethics are questionable at best.
Expecting the court to clean up political messes is optimistic. Systemic issues need broader reforms.
How exactly will the government fund this without increasing the national debt? I’m skeptical.
Governments have always used economic stimuli in times of crisis. This is no different.
Those attacking the policy need to ask themselves if they have any better solutions. Criticizing is easy.
Digital handout? More like digital distraction! Let’s keep our eyes on the real issues.
It’s reassuring that the government is addressing misinformation. Better than letting rumors run wild.