Bangkok: "Phumtham" has initiated an investigation into the Office of the Permanent Secretary following the leak of documents related to the economic stimulus budget, which were released without undergoing the proper process. He expressed concerns about the method through which these documents were issued. The Director-General is currently facing a change in position, and Phumtham confirmed that all necessary information regarding the new local budget distribution to stimulate the economy is complete.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, who serves as both Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and is currently acting as Prime Minister, addressed the situation of the Department of Local Administration (DLA) disseminating documents to the media. These documents aimed to clarify accusations regarding the economic stimulus budget, stating that the budget distribution was not concentrated and no 700 million baht budget was allocated to sub-district or provincial administrative organizations in Buriram and Surin provinces. He intends to have the individual responsible for preparing these documents explain the irregularities as their explanations did not adhere to the correct process.
Mr. Phumtham further elaborated that the only budget mentioned was the 157 billion baht allocation, with concentrated budget concerns arising since 2024-2025 for local administration in Buriram province. He highlighted that some sub-district administrative organizations were involved in over 700 projects, receiving full funding, including one project that received 700 million baht. He emphasized that all figures can be verified, and any clarifications would need to address his questions. Legal proceedings would follow to resolve the issue.
'I confirm that the document released yesterday was not officially submitted. It was proposed by someone, so we have to investigate how it came out. The explanation only addresses one point, failing to answer the questions I raised, which were not false. I stand by my statement that all information must be complete before discussions can proceed,' stated Mr. Phumtham.
When questioned about the need for clarification involving the Director-General, Mr. Phumtham asserted that an investigation is necessary to determine how the document was improperly released and subsequently disappeared. With the Director-General facing a position change, questions arise regarding whether there was an official order or involvement from a deputy director-general or director. This issue requires thorough discussion.