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Bhumjaithai Pushes Community Service for Fine Defaulters

snoop1130
· 138 views

The Bhumjaithai Party has proposed an amendment to Thailand's Criminal Code, aiming to allow those unable to pay fines to perform community service rather than serving jail time. The proposal, submitted by MP Koravee Prissanananthakul to the House, seeks to mitigate prison overcrowding and address social equity issues. The change targets individuals, primarily from low-income backgrounds, who currently face incarceration for unpaid fines.

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Submitted to the House by first deputy speaker Mallika Jirapunvanit, the amendment highlights how existing laws disproportionately penalize the economically disadvantaged. Currently, individuals must serve one day in jail for every 500 baht owed. The party's concern centers on the loss of liberty among the poor who cannot meet these financial obligations.

Supachai Jaisamutr from Bhumjaithai's legal team emphasized the urgency of the issue, noting it exacerbates social inequality. The proposed reforms aim to revise two sections of the legal code, offering community service as a viable alternative to imprisonment. The party anticipates bipartisan support, hoping for expedited legislative consideration.

Koravee also pointed out that recent parliamentary debates on justice system fairness underscored concerns about overcrowded prisons. This amendment could provide a practical solution, ensuring fair treatment for individuals who are financially deficient.

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image.png  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 07 Mar 2026

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    Watawattana Gold Member

    Watawattana

    Advanced Member

    On balance this seems like a good initiative. Saves Thailand the cost of jailing these folks, whilst they have to work off their fines. I kind of hope that the 'exchange rate' between fine and time is really very harsh, like an 8-hour day or more per 500 Baht, and that if they have a job it'd all be on their days off.

    Rams86 Gold Member

    Rams86

    Advanced Member

    My wife has had numerous small restaurants but has given up. She has tried so hard to employ Thai people, that even includes members from her own family for help but most of them are useless. There's not to many Charlie Drakes amongst Thais. That's why shop owners roll the dice and employ people from Myamar, Laos or Cambodia. If the honourable member can get these people to work I say good luck to him.

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