5-1-2024( On the second day of the 2024 budget bill debate, opposition parties in Thailand criticized the budget allocations for the military, arguing that they contradicted the policy statements made by the ruling Pheu Thai Party regarding downsizing and reforming the armed forces.
Aekkarat Udomamnuay, a Move Forward Party (MFP) MP for Bangkok, highlighted concerns about the Defence Ministry’s budget request of 198 billion baht, a 3.8 billion baht increase from the previous fiscal year. He emphasized that the allocated funds for military personnel constituted 55% of the total budget, with the army accounting for about 64%.
Questioning the alignment with Pheu Thai’s downsizing plan, Aekkarat raised doubts about the Defence Ministry’s intentions, particularly as the budget for military personnel included allowances and uniforms. Historically, during economic crises, the Defence Ministry’s budget was often reduced, but in the current economic scenario, it has seen a 2% increase.
Aekkarat further criticized the consistent budget allocation of 565 million baht for position allowances for military personnel, expressing concern about the number of generals within the Defence Ministry compared to other agencies.
Chayapol Sathondee, an MFP MP for Bangkok, focused on the Defence Ministry’s arms procurement budget, revealing a 2.4 billion baht reduction due to a shift to a long-term instalment plan. He emphasized the increase in long-term debt to 57 billion baht, double the amount in the previous year.
Romdon Panjor, an MFP list MP, raised issues with the budget for addressing unrest in the deep South, urging a reduction by over 1 billion baht. He also questioned the allocation of over 5 billion baht for the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc), suggesting a connection with “ghost” personnel and calling for an explanation.
In response, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin acknowledged the improved situation in the deep South due to collaborative efforts. He expressed readiness to consider opinions regarding Isoc’s budget spending.
The 2024 budget bill, seeking 3.48 trillion baht, will undergo a vote after the debate concludes, followed by scrutiny from a 72-member House committee.
As of press time, government MPs and cabinet ministers had not responded to the opposition’s criticism on the military downsizing issue.
