Bangkok: "Phonpeerap" has strongly criticized "Monporn" over the digital wallet issue, asserting that the project initially failed during the Paetongtarn government due to an investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). He highlighted that 157 billion baht was reallocated to infrastructure projects, and stated that these events were unrelated to the subsequent minority government.
According to Thai News Agency, former MP for Nakhon Ratchasima from the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Phonpheer Suwannachavi, refuted allegations made by former MP for Constituency 2, Nakhon Phanom from the Pheu Thai Party. Ms. Charoensri had claimed that the Digital Wallet project budget was cut by a minority government to support the "Half-Price Plus" co-payment scheme. Mr. Phonpheer labeled these claims as distortions of the facts.
General Peer explained that the digital wallet project "failed" during Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government. Prime Minister Paetongtarn had cited the need to reserve funds to address US tax measures, commonly referred to as Trump taxes. This decision was in line with a complaint received by the NACC concerning fund diversion by the government of Mr. Settha Thavisin and his cabinet.
Mr. Polpeer elaborated that when the project was initially proposed under the Paetongtarn government, it was already fraught with legal risks. To avoid potential issues, the project was shelved, and the allocated 157 billion baht was redirected towards water, roads, and tourism infrastructure. Thus, he argued, the project's non-implementation had no connection to the minority government that followed.
General Peer accused Ms. Monporn of misleading the public during the election campaign by using the digital wallet project issue, despite media reports clarifying the facts. He expressed that Ms. Monporn should acknowledge the Bhumjaithai Party's initial efforts to advance the project. When issues arose and the Pheu Thai Party opted not to continue, the Bhumjaithai Party did not oppose, maintaining political courtesy.
Regarding the "Half-Price Plus" project, Mr. Polpeer confirmed it utilized remaining funds and that no cuts were made from the digital wallet program's budget, as no budget was available for the digital wallet even at the outset.
"Good politics doesn't require fabricating lies to deceive the public. It's better to campaign with the truth and achievements. Slandering others doesn't elevate anyone; it only lowers oneself with the lies created," concluded Mr. Polpeer.