The Bhumjaithai Party gathered to discuss with SMEs and startups. Ekniti emphasized that their policy is not about simply handing out money and ending there, but about fostering growth to enable competition on the global stage. They await the Election Commission's investigation after the Bank of Thailand Governor revealed unusual cash withdrawals linked to the election period.
At 10:00 a.m. on 29 Jan 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Bhumjaithai Party campaign assistant Along with party leaders Ms. Supamas Isarapakdi and Mr. Ekanat Promphan, the Bangkok campaign chief, as well as Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri and Dr. Ekaphop Phianpiset, party list MP candidates, and Ms. Pitcharat Laohapongchana, also a party list candidate, campaigned in support of Mr. Noraset Thianprasit, candidate for Bangkok MP in Phayathai-Din Daeng district. They gathered for a roundtable discussion exchanging views with businesspeople and startup groups at Mitr Ari restaurant.
Mr. Ekniti said their policy aims to promote Thai startups. They do not simply give money and stop but focus on skill development and market access because they believe Thai startups are key to linking with large businesses and Made in Thailand SME Plus, which truly helps Thai people. Bhumjaithai does not emphasize handouts but rather helping businesses access opportunities and collaborate to grow the startup market together.
"Today's GDP figure for Q4 was initially forecast at 0.3%, but it rose to 1.8%, with an annual average of 2.2%, helping to lift Thailand's economy out of the slump. Moving forward, we will equip Thai people by enhancing skills and opportunities for all professions and levels. If the Khon La Khrueng Plus program returns next round, it will focus on upskilling, such as online sales training, to help reduce living costs. The core idea of Khon La Khrueng Plus is that money circulates among small-scale individuals."
Mr. Ekniti continued that anyone can declare intentions, but they speak and then show results. The key is listening to feedback. It has been proven that Thai startups are capable, and they must work closely with them in practice. "Speak and do plus" means continuous development. Regarding whether government funds can be used to help, he said bureaucracy imposes restrictions. If money is lost due to corruption, it must be addressed. But some funds must be released. Creating startups is risky, so there must be funds that accept risk and potential non-repayment. There are funds to boost competitive capabilities.
Regarding promoting Thailand's gaming industry, Mr. Ekniti stated he believes in Thai people's great talent in design and development, unmatched globally. Therefore, a fund should be established to support Thai game growth, since direct budget allocation is not possible. Besides promoting gaming, culture can also be creatively integrated into tourism within games. He supports setting up a fund to develop the entire industry system and enhancing skills for Thai youth who already enjoy gaming. Additionally, after discussions with investors interested in Thailand, one obstacle is the complex multi-step system, which they plan to unlock by starting an investor care center with digital services like a fast track and by reforming redundant laws over the long term.
At noon, Mr. Ekniti and Bhumjaithai leaders walked to meet vendors and the public shopping during the lunch break at the Ministry of Finance market. The atmosphere was lively, with many people requesting photos and offering strong support. There were also calls to continue the Khon La Khrueng Plus Phase 2 project, as the initial round effectively stimulated the economy and energized the market.
Later, Mr. Ekniti gave an interview regarding the Bank of Thailand (BoT) finding irregularities involving cash withdrawals during the election period. He said he has been in constant communication with the BoT Governor and has participated in overseeing the data bureau mechanism, which requires commercial banks to report information to relevant authorities. Currently, suspicious transactions are being forwarded to all concerned parties, including those related to illicit funds, which must be reviewed case by case. He understands that the Ministry of Justice has engaged the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to investigate, and the process is nearing completion.
"The data bureau system is designed to link and prevent Thailand from becoming a hub for illicit funds. Cooperation is essential. The key is adding identity verification steps and monitoring withdrawal behaviors. Regarding whether unusual cash withdrawals are linked to vote-buying during elections, that matter must be investigated by the Election Commission, the proper authority responsible for this."
