Senator Labels Free Meal Ban in Thai Parliament an “Insult”

A Thai senator has sparked controversy after protesting the decision to cancel free meals in Parliament, describing the move as an “insult” to the honour of senators. This occurred during a Senate meeting on Monday, April 20, following a previous decision by Members of Parliament to end free meals due to public criticism over taxpayer fund usage. MPs, who earn over 100,000 baht monthly, began paying for their own meals after the Songkran festival.

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The decision came after a March 15 meeting where Parliament President Sophon Saram announced that food and drinks would still be provided but at the MPs’ expense. Following this, Senator Wuttichat Kalyanamit suggested senators also pay for meals, proposing a 10,000 baht monthly deduction from their allowances. This proposal is still under discussion.

During the recent Senate meeting, Senator Prathum Wongsawat expressed disagreement, noting it would be the last day of free meals and arguing that the change was inappropriate. She suggested alternative solutions like reducing meal budgets or portions instead of eliminating them altogether, emphasizing it was an issue of honour rather than financial capacity.

Her comments triggered social media criticism, with many questioning the connection between free meals and the honour of public service. Users suggested that a senator's honour should be showcased through effective duty performance, while others mocked the idea that free meals conferred honour.

The Senate has not finalized a decision on the new policy. Deputy Senate President Boonsong Noisophon plans to discuss the matter further in an upcoming meeting to gather more viewpoints from Senate members.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 22 Apr 2026