The 10,000-baht digital wallet project is facing uncertainty following the dissolution of the previous cabinet; however, the Pheu Thai Party remains committed to advocating for this flagship policy in the upcoming government, stated caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.
Mr. Julapun, a member of the Pheu Thai Party, expressed on Thursday that he could not assure the continuation of projects initiated by the previous administration. Nevertheless, if Pheu Thai becomes part of the next coalition, it will prioritize the digital wallet initiative as a key policy.
“I can confirm that the Pheu Thai Party, which has 141 representatives in the House, will propose the 10,000-baht cash handout project if it joins the next coalition government,” he stated.
The caretaker cabinet is scheduled to meet on Thursday afternoon to appoint an acting prime minister and discuss responsibilities during the transition period. He noted that some government projects may experience delays.
Mr. Julapun also recommended that individuals who have downloaded the Thang Rath application for the cash handout scheme should keep it, emphasizing its utility for accessing a variety of public services and its security features.
The Pheu Thai-led coalition took on caretaker government status on Wednesday after the Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin due to the unethical appointment of a former minister from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The cash handout scheme was planned to roll out in the fourth quarter of this year, but it has faced multiple delays due to concerns from agencies, including the Bank of Thailand (BoT).
In a related update, Mr. Julapun assured that the 3.75-trillion-baht national budget for the 2025 fiscal year will not be delayed despite recent events.
“The budget is currently in the parliamentary process and can continue as planned,” he told reporters.
The budget bill for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 received its initial parliamentary approval in June and will undergo a series of additional votes before it can be enacted. The bill must pass second and third readings in the lower house before being sent for Senate consideration and royal approval.
