Bangkok: Senator Pisit has expressed his disapproval of the entire 2016 budget bill, describing it as a budget that those who requested it could not use, and those who used it could not request. He made these remarks while preparing for a change in the government.
According to Thai News Agency, during a Senate session at Parliament focused on the 2026 Budget Bill, Senator Pisit Apiwattanapong reiterated his disagreement with the 2016 Budget Bill. He acknowledged the budget's importance in stimulating economic activity and government spending but criticized the previous year's budget implementation. He regarded the 2015 Budget Bill as a failure of the Prime Minister to execute announced plans, instead pursuing different projects. Pisit referred to it as a "father's policy, but the son's policy," emphasizing the son's focus on implementing substantial soft power initiatives.
Senator Pisit elaborated on his concerns regarding the term 'soft power,' interpreting it as a significant financial drain rather than an effective policy. He cited past government projects, such as the digital money giveaway, as failures that did not meet public expectations. Pisit criticized these initiatives as wasteful and ineffective, likening them to a promised economic storm that resulted in only a gentle breeze. Additionally, he mentioned the failure of the 20 baht flat rate policy.
Continuing his critique, Senator Pisit highlighted the digital wallet project as a source of trouble for Parliament. He mentioned that complaints had been filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) regarding the transfer of the 2015 budget, raising concerns about potential constitutional violations. He urged consideration of whether the project indirectly benefited Parliament or was linked to campaign policies.
Senator Pisit concluded his remarks by referencing the removal of the government on National Friday, August 29th, by the court. He expressed his lack of hope for the new government, emphasizing the importance of a budget that ensures basic needs are met without compromising national pride or dignity. Pisit proposed naming the 2026 budget as 'Those who ask can't use it, those who use it can't because there will be a new government,' reflecting his skepticism about its effectiveness.