The Deputy Spokesperson of the Kalatham Party criticized the government for blocking the Land Bridge special committee, effectively silencing parliamentary oversight of this national mega project. He warned against using 'development' as a pretext to push forward massive projects without proper mechanisms for scrutiny.
At 09:15 on 31 May 2026, Mr. Peerawat Somwong, Deputy Spokesperson of the Kalatham Party, said after the House of Representatives voted against forming a special committee to study the issues and impacts of the Land Bridge project connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, that the Kalatham Party was disappointed with the government MPs' stance. They denied the opportunity to thoroughly study this large-scale project, which could affect the economy, society, environment, and the lifestyles of people in many areas.
Mr. Peerawat added that establishing a special committee is not obstructing national development but is a legislative mechanism to review, study, and create space for all sectors to participate—especially the local communities directly impacted by the project, including issues like land expropriation, effects on natural resources, marine ecosystems, as well as impacts on communities and residents' livelihoods.
"The government MPs' vote against forming the special committee effectively allows the government to proceed with the Land Bridge project while cutting off legislative participation and reducing the public's chance to engage in oversight and provide feedback on this important national project," he said. Mr. Peerawat stated.
He further noted that the Land Bridge project is a mega project with an enormous budget that could have long-term impacts. What people want is not just the word 'development' but development that is transparent, fair, and genuinely listens to the voices of local people. Without adequate oversight, those who will ultimately bear the most impact are the people themselves.
Mr. Peerawat affirmed that the Kalatham Party will continue to closely monitor the Land Bridge project's progress and will fully perform its role in scrutinizing the government's work to ensure that the country's development projects are based on transparency, accountability, and inclusive participation from all sectors of society.