Vatcharapong responded to Ratchanok, urging her to stop distorting the poor card issue and criticized the Orange Party for seeking attention by exploiting the public’s hardship. He reaffirmed that the government is not broke and is focused on helping the real beneficiaries, with plans to extend the appeal period to crack down on fraudulent interests in welfare distribution.
On 23 Jul 2026 GMT+7, Vatcharapong Kuwijitsuwan, MP for Saraburi from Bhumjaithai Party, addressed concerns raised by Ms. Ratchanok Sukprasert, Chair of the Social Welfare Commission and People’s Party MP from Samut Prakan. She questioned confusion over the deadline for appealing state welfare card rights, worrying that over 9 million people might lose their benefits. Vatcharapong said the government is determined that this screening policy ensures the national budget reaches those truly in need. The "truly poor". Those urgently needing assistance, rather than allowing ineligible groups to falsely claim rights.
Additionally, the government has detected irregularities and is preparing to take decisive legal action against "gray capital groups" and fraudsters who exploit and deceive by using ordinary citizens’ names to claim welfare benefits, which seriously misappropriates taxes and harms society.
Vatcharapong affirmed the government is not "broke." The country’s financial status remains strong with sufficient budget to fully support citizens. The entire reorganization aims to plug leaks and maximize efficiency.
Regarding concerns about the appeal deadline, the government is aware and not ignoring the issue. Relevant agencies are considering extending the appeal period to give those who were missed or qualified but failed the first round time to prepare documents and secure their rights. This confirms the government’s readiness to review all steps with citizens’ interests as the priority.
Vatcharapong called on Ms. Ratchanok and People’s Party members involved in this issue to genuinely work for the nation’s benefit. He urged them to stop distorting facts or using citizens’ hardship and confusion as tools for political gain or personal spotlight. He believes the government is open to constructive suggestions for improvement but opposes spreading rumors or sensationalizing to create panic. Ultimately, those harmed by such political games and misinformation are the citizens waiting for state assistance.