Politics
Opposition MP Challenges Constitutional Court Budget for Training Program
A Move Forward Party MP has proposed a budget cut of 7.9 million baht for a Constitutional Court training program, citing concerns over the use of public funds.
On September 10, 2026, during the second and third readings of the 2027 fiscal year budget bill at the Thai Parliament, Panida Mongkolsawat, a Member of Parliament for the People's Party, formally requested a reduction of 7.9 million baht from the Constitutional Court’s budget. The specific allocation in question is for the 'Rule of Law for Democracy' (NTP) training program.
According to Khaosod Online, Panida argued that the program, which involves high-ranking officials, functions more as a networking opportunity for elites rather than a necessary public service, suggesting that taxpayer money should not be used for such purposes. The report noted that prominent figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Election Commission Secretary-General Sawaeng Bunmee, have participated in the course.
For residents and expatriates, this debate highlights ongoing parliamentary scrutiny regarding the allocation of public funds and the transparency of state-funded training programs for high-level officials. While the proposal to cut the budget has been formally submitted for consideration during the budget bill review, it remains to be confirmed whether the motion will be approved by the assembly or if the Constitutional Court will provide a formal defense of the program's necessity. The budget bill, totaling 3.78 trillion baht, continues to undergo legislative review.
