Opponents of Thailand’s digital wallet scheme are seeking intervention from various authorities to put the scheme on hold. Thai Pakdee Party leader Warong Dechgitvigrom filed a complaint with the Auditor-General’s Office, questioning why the government does not provide the benefit in cash. Former senator Rosana Tositrakul also submitted a petition to the Election Commission, citing reasons to suspend or scrap the scheme. The government, however, remains determined to implement the scheme with adjustments.
Opposition to Controversial Digital Wallet Scheme Grows
The government’s highly debated digital wallet scheme is facing mounting opposition from various parties seeking to halt its implementation. Thai Pakdee Party leader Warong Dechgitvigrom has filed a complaint with the Auditor-General’s Office, requesting an investigation into the scheme’s potential economic damage before seeking its suspension through the Administrative Court. Dr. Warong questions the decision to distribute the Bt10,000 benefit in the form of digital tokens rather than cash, arguing that it complicates matters for the general public and offers little benefit to small retailers who prefer cash payments.
Multiple Parties Seek Probe into Digital Wallet Scheme
Political activist Rosana Tositrakul has joined the opposition, submitting a petition to the Election Commission and the Office of Auditor-General to investigate and potentially suspend the controversial digital wallet scheme. Citing concerns over its high cost, potential violation of the Currency Act, and the need for significant investment in the blockchain technology it relies on, Rosana argues that the scheme undermines financial discipline principles and may increase public debt. Despite these objections, the government remains determined to implement the scheme, albeit with some adjustments.
