Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and a Member of Parliament, has launched a scathing critique of the government's policy statement, accusing it of being filled with empty rhetoric and lacking concrete guidelines and tools necessary for tangible progress. Abhisit highlighted the government's failure to address critical issues such as energy management, pointing out flaws in the administration's approach.

According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit expressed disappointment that the government's policy statement did not reflect the public's expectations for improved well-being and failed to provide a clear direction for the country's progress. He emphasized that the policy document should serve as a roadmap for parliamentary scrutiny of government performance, which it currently does not.

Abhisit criticized the government's omission of key campaign promises, such as the "Land Bridge Project," and highlighted the absence of policies to support Village Health Volunteers. He also pointed out the superficial treatment of complex issues like the three southern provinces, where the policy statement merely states "Understand, Access, Develop, Create Peace" without offering concrete strategies.

The Democrat Party leader attributed the lack of clarity and direction to four main reasons: the vagueness of "always true" policies, ineffective government management, the absence of public sentiment in policy-making, and ethical concerns. He criticized the government's handling of the oil crisis, highlighting mismanagement, burden-shifting away from the public, and corruption.

Abhisit accused the government of squandering public funds from the Oil Fund without preparing contingency measures, leading to higher fuel prices for citizens. He called for a fair distribution of the burden and criticized the government's approach of adjusting prices through the Fuel Shortage Act, which he said was causing confusion.

Moreover, Abhisit raised concerns about shady capital hindering investment and transparency in the capital market. He criticized the government's empty promises in the agricultural sector, pointing out the lack of structural changes to support farmers, particularly in the coconut industry.

Abhisit also questioned the absence of welfare policies in the government's agenda, urging a more balanced approach to government spending. He emphasized the need to prioritize assistance for those affected by rising oil prices, which impact people nationwide.

In conclusion, Abhisit warned the government against viewing citizens as mere stepping stones to power. He urged a commitment to genuine democratic principles and accountability, warning that failure to do so would lead to widespread public dissatisfaction.