Thanathorn urges Prime Minister Anutin to accelerate the payment of 49,500 baht for flood damage repairs in Hat Yai, noting that many residents have yet to receive the funds, with some living in homes without walls for two months.
On 23 January 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that on 22 January, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of the Progressive Movement and campaign assistant for the People's Party, posted on his Facebook page, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit - Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, addressing Acting Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul regarding the urgent disbursement of flood repair funds for Hat Yai.
Today, I visited the people of Hat Yai and had the opportunity to meet with communities affected by the floods. I listened to complaints from residents about the 49,500 baht repair payments, many of whom still have not received the money.
Thanathorn stated that many people approached him with frustration, even tearing up. They have had to live in houses without walls or curtains, lacking funds to repair their homes or buy new essentials, enduring this for two months. The 49,500 baht is a significant sum for these people but a relatively small amount for the government to allocate for relief.
Previously, delays were caused by added approval steps. Municipalities and local authorities must submit through district and provincial review committees before sending to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation at the Ministry of Interior centrally, then to Cabinet for approval. This redundant, lengthy process does not respond effectively to urgent needs from the central government. Without authoritative oversight to expedite, it is unclear how much longer the process will take, leaving people waiting aimlessly.
I urge the Prime Minister to promptly deliver these funds to the people of Hat Yai. I believe the People's Party, as the opposition, will not obstruct or use this issue for political attack or campaigning. The only hope is for residents to receive relief payments as soon as possible to alleviate their hardship.