Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has expressed confidence that the upcoming debate on the 2016 budget will proceed without disruptions, asserting that the Bhumjaithai Party, which he leads, will not oppose the budget. Anutin emphasized that the budget, crafted by four ministries under Bhumjaithai's oversight, amounts to 1 trillion baht, underscoring the party's commitment to support it.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin addressed concerns ahead of the fiscal year 2026 budget bill debate scheduled for May 28-31. He assured that the budget has been thoroughly reviewed at both ministerial and cabinet levels, with coalition parties in agreement. Dismissing rumors of Bhumjaithai obstructing the process, Anutin clarified that the party's involvement in creating the budget for the ministries it oversees makes it imperative to support its implementation for the benefit of the public.
Anutin further stated that full support from Bhumjaithai Party members is expected, highlighting their role as part of the government. He reiterated that the budget process will be seamless, having already received cabinet approval, and cautioned against spreading concerns of governmental discord.
Addressing readiness for potential opposition scrutiny, Anutin noted that Bhumjaithai and other coalition parties are prepared to explain and justify the budget. He emphasized the importance of providing clear responses to queries, viewing it as a routine aspect of budget discussions he has encountered six times previously.
Regarding project proposals under the Ministry of Interior from the 157 billion baht economic stimulus budget, Anutin reported that the Department of Local Administration is managing initial assessments. These will be forwarded to a subcommittee for further review by the Ministry of Finance, focusing on infrastructure projects related to roads, water systems, and tourism.