No checks on military

The recent decision by the caretaker government to classify the 2026 fiscal defence budget as confidential raises serious questions about transparency and accountability.

- 

The classification, proposed by the Defence Ministry, applies to two major agencies: the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence and the Armed Forces Headquarters. The budget size, along with other details, has not been disclosed.

It is understood that the move would give the military a free hand in spending or disbursing funds, as such confidential budgets are subject to limited scrutiny by state auditors and parliament.

Undeniably, the transfer further entrenches budgetary privilege for the military following armed clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border.

The conflict, sparked by skirmishes at just a few flashpoints, erupted in July and again in December, dragging on for almost a month and resulting in losses among military personnel.