Bangkok: The Prime Minister has justified the necessity of an emergency decree to borrow 400 billion baht as a means to tackle the ongoing energy crisis, prepare for potential conflicts in the Middle East, and facilitate Thailand's transition to alternative energy sources. He emphasized the critical nature of this crisis, describing it as a crisis within a crisis, thereby necessitating expedited measures through the emergency decree.
According to Thai News Agency, the Senate meeting, led by General Kriengkrai Srirak, the First Deputy Speaker of the Senate, deliberated on the Royal Decree. This decree grants the Ministry of Finance the authority to borrow funds aimed at mitigating the impacts of the energy crisis and supporting the country's energy transition by 2026, as proposed by the Cabinet.
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul personally presented the Emergency Decree, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the current global energy crisis. He pointed out that unlike previous oil crises, the current situation involves rising prices despite steady demand, leading to a shortage affecting various sectors including commodity prices, transportation, agriculture, and the general public. He emphasized the urgency and complexity of the crisis, which necessitated the Emergency Decree, and noted that conventional budgetary processes would be inadequate for a timely response. He assured the Senate of transparent budgetary spending and asserted that the borrowing would not compromise public debt management.
During his address, the Prime Minister, who appeared to be battling a bronchial ailment, voiced his commitment to personally engaging with the Senate out of respect, despite his condition. His statement was met with a range of responses from over 20 senators. Ms. Nanthana Nanthavaropas expressed skepticism about the urgency and appropriateness of the borrowing, cautioning against the government's approach and questioning the focus on solar power when other renewable energy options are available.
On political matters, the Prime Minister responded to comments by Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, about missing a seminar due to other engagements, humorously suggesting that dining with him would be more enjoyable. Additionally, he addressed the local government recruitment exam corruption scandal, assuring that legal procedures are being followed and that the Department of Local Administration is managing the situation. He affirmed that anyone involved in wrongdoing will face prosecution without exception.
The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to voters for supporting the Bhumjaithai Party's candidate in the Udon Thani Constituency 3 by-election. He viewed this as an endorsement of the party's capability to address public concerns effectively. Following the Senate session, the Prime Minister proceeded to Songkhla Province for a mobile cabinet meeting.