Bangkok: In a recent meeting of the House of Representatives Budget Committee for the Fiscal Year 2026, questions were raised regarding the necessity of budget allocations for purchasing jet skis, patrol boats, and reception boats, which total over 82 million baht. The meeting, chaired by Ms. Manoporn Charoensri, Deputy Minister of Transport, focused on evaluating the proposed budget of the Secretariat of the House of Representatives.
According to Thai News Agency, the committee expressed concerns over various budget proposals, highlighting that many projects appeared neither urgent nor reasonable. Some proposals were flagged as potential avenues for corruption within the House budget. Mr. Wisarn Techathirawat, a member of the House of Representatives, voiced his disagreement with a proposed 117 million baht expenditure on a cabinet meeting room. He questioned the necessity of converting three existing meeting rooms for this purpose and raised concerns about a separate budget for landscape improvements outside the parliament building, which he argued should be covered under warranty.
Mr. Wisarn urged caution, suggesting that the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives refrain from signing any new contracts in the coming months due to potential corruption issues that could lead to future investigations by the NACC. He highlighted the significant increase in budget allocations, from the original 12 billion baht for the House of Representatives to an estimated 20 billion baht, once repair costs are included.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phrits Wacharasindhu, a party-list MP of the Prachachon Party, queried the necessity of a budget proposal to acquire motorcade vehicles and boats, including jet skis and patrol boats. He questioned the need for such expenditures, which amount to more than 82 million baht.
Mr. Phanthil Nuamchim, a Bangkok MP from the People's Party, criticized the reallocation of funds from the 2025 budget for other projects. He highlighted a 19 million baht transfer intended for youth development being repurposed for banquet hall improvements, as well as funds for lighting and LED screens being diverted from other projects.
Responding to the scrutiny, Pol. Lt. Col. Aphat Sukhanan, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, explained that budget transfers were deemed necessary to address various issues. He provided updates on several projects, including museum renovations and library expansions. He also clarified that the boat budget had been adjusted and eliminated.
The Secretary-General further elaborated on plans for the cabinet meeting room, which is to be situated by the Chao Phraya River on the 2nd floor. The renovation is intended to provide space for waiting during deliberations, without affecting the committee room. Additionally, the renovation of Sala Kaew will accommodate ceremonial activities, with budget considerations still ongoing.