Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut and Veerayut Kanjanachut have called on the government to explain a sudden 6 baht per litre fuel price increase, warning of nationwide public hardship and questioning whether conflicts of interest are involved. The announcement, made late at night on 25 March 2026, has triggered widespread concern among consumers and businesses already facing rising costs.

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Speaking at the Future Forward Building on 26 March, Natthaphong, leader of the People’s Party, said the sharp increase has affected people “in every corner” of the country. He criticised the government for failing to communicate transparently, urging it to clarify the decision in parliament rather than through controlled media channels. He also raised questions about potential conflicts of interest involving Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, citing his role as chair of a fuel-related committee alongside links to the energy sector supply chain.

Natthaphong added that despite government assurances of sufficient fuel supply, reports from multiple areas showed long queues at petrol stations. He questioned why authorities have only arrested small-scale offenders in fuel hoarding cases, suggesting that larger actors benefiting from the crisis remain unidentified. He warned that public trust is deteriorating and called for immediate accountability, particularly regarding who benefits from the price increase.

Veerayut, deputy leader of the People’s Party, criticised the government’s approach as lacking explanation, principle, and empathy. He said the abrupt increase contradicted previous statements and ignored proposals raised in parliament, including a phased pricing model to provide predictability. According to Veerayut, the government continues to consult only major business groups without engaging affected sectors such as farmers, fishermen, transport operators and ride-hailing drivers.

He further argued that the government has failed to formally outline support measures for vulnerable groups, relying instead on media interviews rather than official announcements. Veerayut also questioned why construction concessionaires were mentioned among those eligible for assistance, raising concerns over prioritisation.

InsideThailand reported that the People’s Party is urging the government to use approximately 30 billion baht in emergency central funds to provide immediate relief. Veerayut said such funds could be deployed with approval from the Election Commission in urgent circumstances, rejecting claims that budget limitations prevent action. The party warned that without clear policies and decisive leadership, uncertainty will persist for both citizens and businesses.

Picture courtesy of InsideThailand

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Adapted by ASEAN Now InsideThailand 27 Mar 2026

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A healthy democracy needs a strong opposition, but that strength comes from holding the government accountable on issues it can actually control.

Fuel prices are driven largely by global markets, not by any single administration.

When the opposition focuses on matters outside the government’s direct influence, it weakens its own credibility and distracts from areas where real oversight is needed.