The government spokesperson responded to Abhisit's remarks, affirming that many initiatives have already eased public hardship. She revealed that many more proposals are set to enter the Cabinet for consideration but must wait for the approval of the 2027 fiscal budget first. She pointed out that Suphajee oversees multiple work clusters rather than just managing one ministry.
16 Apr 2026 GMT+7 Ms. Ratchada Thinadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, gave an interview regarding Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party (DP), criticizing the government's performance, saying she understands his goodwill but believes there are many issues Mr. Abhisit is not yet aware that the government is already working on or has completed, with many more awaiting Cabinet consideration. For example, when Mr. Abhisit said the government should expedite the enactment of the Budget Transfer Act to reallocate funds from less necessary projects to support systems assisting the public, it may seem doable immediately. However, due to budget processes, the Cabinet must first review the 2027 national budget before considering budget transfers. The government is actively working on this and aims to implement the new budget by 1 October 2026.
Ms. Ratchada further stated, regarding measures to address inflation from cost factors, the government will gradually introduce policies; people are encouraged to follow updates. As of today, following the first Cabinet meeting, support began for public transport and freight trucks carrying consumer goods to reduce living costs. An initial central budget of over two billion baht is allocated, with operators registering starting today. This support covers minibus, taxi, rider services, trucks, etc. Overall, there are immediate, targeted, and long-term measures. If Mr. Abhisit dislikes the 'Khon La Khrueng' co-payment scheme, that is his opinion.
Regarding the division of responsibilities to Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, who does not oversee the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives as Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, mentioned during campaigning, Ms. Ratchada said the Prime Minister assigned Suphajee to lead tasks promoting trade, commerce, agricultural and industrial products, and tourism. This cluster is responsible for enhancing the country's competitiveness in trade and commerce, supporting SMEs, improving quality and adding value to agricultural and industrial products, and promoting sustainable tourism. This aligns with previous statements and indicates a broader scope than managing a single ministry, involving clusters of interlinked ministries' work. She thus shared this Cabinet resolution and believes this issue should be settled so the focus can return to work.
Nonetheless, she thanked all for their goodwill. The government will continue to consider various measures targeting appropriate groups and ensuring budget efficiency to provide full assistance to the public.