Pakorn clarifies the controversy over the 500 billion baht loan decree, complains about being misquoted, says he was just answering legal questions, expresses reluctance to give interviews, mentions the Prime Minister understands, reiterates he is not a career politician, and shows a yellow wristband, stating he acts for the people of the community.
At 08:57 on 21 April 2026, Pakorn Nilprapunt, Deputy Prime Minister, spoke to reporters before the Cabinet meeting. He beckoned the media to clarify the issue regarding the issuance of a royal decree to borrow 500 billion baht, explaining that when asked whether the government could issue such a decree, he replied that it was allowed under the constitution.
He explained Section 172 and how it could be applied. When reporters asked if borrowing to guarantee the Oil Fund was possible, he said it was. When asked about the current status, he said he didn’t know and suggested asking the Ministry of Finance. This was then reported as if he had announced a loan would be made, leading to criticism. He said this was unfair and that he would rather not speak in the future. He believes the Prime Minister avoids interviews partly because media clips cut his words, causing misunderstandings and accusations of him going offside with the government. He wanted to clarify that he was simply answering legal questions, providing detailed legal knowledge, not engaging in politics. He stressed the importance of reasoned discussion and warned against taking words out of context to create controversy, which is harmful to the country.
"Let me emphasize: it’s unbelievable that explaining the law could cause problems for the government and society. I think that’s wrong and needs to be clarified first. I’m not making excuses, just stating the facts about our discussion yesterday. Many young people around me are involved. Let’s clear this up first. There’s no actual borrowing or related action yet, because discussions must happen first. Minister Pradorn Prissanantakul said talks need to occur first, which is correct. The Permanent Secretary of Finance said he doesn’t know yet, which is also correct. So no talks have started. Yesterday’s question was whether the government could issue a royal decree, and I said yes, under Section 172. Reporters then asked if the conditions applied, and I gave my personal opinion. That’s all I want to say. I’m not angry, just want to clear things up and avoid confusion spreading further."
Pakorn said some people were quick to oppose. He said the future task is to stabilize the country through what some call a crisis upon crisis, which is actually the new normal worldwide. We have to live with it going forward. We must consider how to pass such issues on to future generations and avoid unnecessary disputes and distractions.
When asked if the Prime Minister had reprimanded him for speaking out first on the matter, Pakorn said he was merely explaining the law, and the Prime Minister understood. He told the media yesterday, but before the next day, parts of his comments were cut and widely spread. He emphasized he is not focusing on politics but is open to legal questions. If anyone wants explanations, they can ask him directly and discuss. But political or speculative questions cannot be answered because the Cabinet and coalition parties must discuss and plan together respectfully.
When asked if this matter requires consultations across many sectors, Pakorn said economic planning must be long-term, not sudden. Even when borrowing, one must carefully consider repayment capacity and timeline, as well as risks. Everyone, including the government responsible for 65 million citizens, must think carefully and plan.
Asked if he would be reluctant to provide legal explanations in the future, Pakorn replied immediately, “Personally, yes. Because if this is how it goes, I think we won’t try to educate society on the correct information, focusing only on political issues, which is not very pleasant. I’m not a career politician but came in to do what I want to succeed at: Better Regulation for Better Life.” He then raised his right hand wearing a yellow wristband inscribed with “Better Regulation for Better Life,” saying, “What’s on my wrist constantly reminds me to do things for the people, not politics. Please.” He then thanked everyone and ended the interview.
When pressed about the 500 billion baht figure in the loan decree, Pakorn asked back, “Who was the first to ask me about the 500 billion figure yesterday?”
Reporters asked if it was a leading question. Pakorn replied, “Yes. The 500 billion figure—when asked yesterday—I said I didn’t know and suggested asking the Ministry of Finance. Then they asked if 500 billion was possible, and I said probably around that. I even laughed. You can check the tape.”
Pakorn then walked away from the interview circle but turned back, raised his hands in a wai to the media, and said, “Excuse me. I’m not angry; I just want to build mutual understanding.”