Bangkok: MP Phanthil Nuamchim has publicly stated his decision to decline an invitation to tour the parliament with Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, citing ongoing concerns about budget allocations and potential constitutional violations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phanthil, representing Bangkok from the Prachachon Party, emphasized that joining Mr. Pichet, MP for Chiang Rai and First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, on a parliamentary tour would be inappropriate as he prepares to submit a request to the Constitutional Court. This request seeks to investigate the allocation of the national budget, particularly questioning the transfer of funds to specific areas. Mr. Phanthil criticized Mr. Pichet's remarks about a billion-baht budget, emphasizing the significance of every baht and questioning the prudence of such financial management.
Mr. Phanthil revealed plans for the Prachachon Party to challenge whether zoning in his area violates constitutional provisions. He expressed reservations about holding a joint press conference with Mr. Pichet, whom he intends to investigate at the Constitutional Court. Highlighting concerns about certain projects, Mr. Phanthil questioned the lack of transparency regarding plans for Sala Kaew, a site reportedly allocated over 100 million baht, and whether it would be demolished. He further questioned the project to install a statue of King Rama VII without clear project details. Mr. Phanthil criticized Mr. Pichet for downplaying budget concerns and urged the media to scrutinize budget reallocations that contravene Article 144 of the Constitution.
Meanwhile, Ms. Passarin Ramwong, also a Bangkok MP from the Prachachon Party, questioned the disproportionate allocation of 87% of the budget to Chiang Rai. She raised concerns about identical project documents, suggesting potential issues with project authorship and transparency. She sought clarification from the Women's Subcommittee regarding the budget's focus on women-related projects in Chiang Rai.
Mr. Phanthil and Ms. Phasarin later led the media to inspect budget-funded renovation areas, such as Sala Kaew, questioning the necessity and environmental impact of converting spaces into air-conditioned rooms. They supported reasonable repairs, such as fixing cracked glass, but remained critical of unnecessary expenditures.