Bangkok: In a recent session of the House of Representatives, Pichai Naripthaphan, the Minister of Commerce, faced scrutiny over his handling of the ongoing rice price issue. People's MPs questioned his commitment to finding a resolution, raising concerns about the government's seemingly contradictory policies and the implications for farmers.
According to Thai News Agency, the session was chaired by Second Vice President Phradorn Prisananantakul, where Mr. Narongdej Ularakul, a party-list MP from the Prachachon Party, pressed Mr. Pichai for answers. Mr. Narongdej expressed gratitude for the minister's presence but emphasized that the rice price issue had been a topic of discussion since the previous week. He noted that despite an urgent motion to address the problem, it appeared that the Ministry of Commerce had not yet taken significant action.
The discussion highlighted the establishment of the Rice Policy and Management Committee (NPMC), traditionally chaired by the prime minister. However, in this government, Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira was appointed as chairman, leading to questions about the Gen Y PM's concern for farmers. Mr. Narongdej criticized the lack of leadership and described the current rice management as a "daily policy" lacking coherent direction.
In response, Mr. Pichai assured that the matter is being prioritized and will be brought to the Cabinet soon, possibly within the next two weeks. He emphasized the need for consulting various agencies to develop a comprehensive solution. Mr. Pichai reaffirmed his dedication to addressing the issue, stating that the suffering of farmers is indeed the suffering of the country and that all stakeholders' opinions must be considered in devising an effective strategy.