Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has supported Pheu Thai party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra's strong criticism of the Bank of Thailand. She had stated that the bank's independence creates a barrier to the government's efforts to stimulate economic recovery.
Paetongtarn's criticism, mentioned in her speech to party members yesterday, immediately faced criticism from various sources, including former Democrat MP Nipit Intarasombut, former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Promphan, and Chirmsak Pinthong.
PM Srettha stated today that Paetongtarn was simply echoing the concerns of the public and the business sector regarding high interest rates, as the central bank has refused to reduce the 2.5% policy rate by 25 basis points, as desired by the government.
He mentioned that, in private, he understands the necessity of the central bank's independence and still hopes that they can collaborate.
Srettha emphasized that government officials, financial institutions, and politicians must have a common goal of working for the public. He added that he will discuss how the government and the central bank can cooperate with the newly-appointed finance minister, Pichai Chunhavajira.
Former Democrat MP Nipit Intarasombut stated in his Facebook post today that Paetongtarn's criticism of the central bank is very serious, and added that she is now following in her father's, paroled former prime minister Thaksin's, footsteps.
Former senator Chirmsak Pinthong commented in his Facebook post today that if Pheu Thai party members want to see Pheu Thai become a true political party, they should change their party leader.
Meanwhile, veteran journalist Suthichai Yoon remarked that Paetongtarn is hurting her own image due to her communication errors, and that her criticism of the central bank amounts to pressuring the central bank's governor.
