Bangkok: The Democrat Party held a forum to present its detailed strategy for addressing Thailand's persistent poverty issues, unveiling a vision titled "How to Eradicate Poverty in Thailand Through Skilled People." The party emphasized the importance of honesty, a robust economy, and a government that facilitates progress rather than obstructing it.
According to Thai News Agency, the forum featured the party's leader, Abhisit Vejjajiva, and prime ministerial candidates Korn Chatikavanij and Dr. Kardee Leowpairoj. They outlined their approach to tackling the nation's significant challenges, highlighting the need for a government that acts as a driving force promoting integrity and justice. The forum underscored concerns about the Thai economy's slow growth over the past 15 years, soaring household debt, and Thailand's diminished influence on the global stage.
Korn Chatikavanij provided an analysis of Thailand's economic trajectory, noting a stark contrast with the recovery achieved during Abhisit Vejjajiva's previous tenure as prime minister. He explained that Thailand's economic growth has stagnated at an average of 2% per year, with the stock market consistently yielding negative returns, affecting income and employment prospects. Korn emphasized that household debt has risen to almost 90% of GDP, posing a significant challenge given the low economic growth and stagnant incomes.
Korn also highlighted Thailand's declining international role, contrasting past influential participation in global economic discussions with the current scenario, where Thailand was absent from significant regional conferences. He expressed confidence in Thailand's potential to restore its global standing, referencing past successes in coordinating international cooperation for economic benefits.
Dr. Kardee Leowpairoj addressed urgent demographic challenges, including low birth rates and an aging population, which place a heavy burden on the working-age demographic. He stressed the need to enhance the quality of life for both children and the elderly amidst global crises and technological changes, particularly the rise of AI, which will impact work patterns and the labor market.
Abhisit Vejjajiva outlined the party's primary goals: fostering a nation of integrity, strengthening the economy, reducing inequality, and reclaiming regional leadership. He emphasized the need for transparency and rigorous law enforcement to combat corruption, which stifles business and national development. He also pointed out that Thailand's economic growth lags behind other ASEAN countries and stressed the importance of accelerating growth to benefit national income and government tax revenues.
The Democrat Party proposed a shift in the government's role from regulator to facilitator, advocating for the use of big data and technology to support private sector growth in various industries. Abhisit affirmed that if elected, he would implement clear indicators to monitor progress, ensuring transparency and accountability in achieving the goal of eradicating poverty in Thailand.
The forum concluded with Abhisit, Korn, and Dr. Kardee extending New Year's greetings to the public, expressing their hope for a prosperous future free from poverty by the year 2569 (2026).