BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira downplayed concerns raised by four former Governors of the Bank of Thailand (BOT) and 227 economists from the Economics for Society group regarding potential political influence over the BOT’s policy direction, October 31.
The worries stem from the upcoming November 4th meeting to appoint a new chairman and two expert members to the BOT board, with the government reportedly nominating individuals closely associated with political circles for the chairman role.
When asked if this situation could impact cooperation between the Finance Ministry and the BOT, Pichai responded simply, “It’s fine.” Upon being asked if he was personally concerned, he turned the question on the reporter, who replied, “Yes, I am.” To this, Pichai responded, “Good, thank you,” before leaving the press conference. (TNA)
