PM, cabinet to offer their salaries to Covid sufferers
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha will donate three months of his salary to help those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting other cabinet ministers to follow suit.
The prime minister announced his donation during a meeting at the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) via a video conference yesterday.
Currently, Prime Minister Prayut receives a monthly salary of 75,590 baht and a monthly position allowance of 50,000 baht which comes to 125,590 baht in total. Over three months he will be donating 376,770 baht.
At least 15 deputy prime ministers, ministers and deputy ministers in the cabinet have expressed their intention to follow suit.
Democrat leader and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said yesterday the party’s ministers were willing to donate their salary to help those affected by the virus although it was just a small gesture.
Deputy Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow, secretary-general of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), said the ministers from the party would give up three months’ salary as well.
Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob of the Bhumjaithai Party also announced that his party would join the cause.
House Speaker Chuan Leekpai said yesterday it is up to the MPs to decide if they want to give up their salary as he noted that several MPs have spent a lot more than their salary on helping people during the pandemic.
He said several have given their own money to buy food, drinking water and face masks for distribution.
“The assistance these MPs give to the people is a lot more than money, but those who want to donate should feel free to do so. It is a good thing,” he said.