Bangkok: A recent poll by the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has highlighted corruption as a pressing national crisis, urging immediate measures to curb illicit capital and promote economic stability.
According to Thai News Agency, the Zero Corruption survey conducted by the JSCCIB reveals that 97% of businesses and 77% of the public consider corruption a significant national issue, necessitating government intervention to reform the structure and build investor confidence.
The Zero Corruption Working Group, a collaboration between the Joint Committee of the Private Sector (JCC) and its allies, released the survey results, emphasizing the need for the new government to prioritize anti-corruption efforts. Key figures such as Associate Professor Dr. Saowalee Thairoongroj, Associate Professor Dr. Thanawat Pholvichai, and Mr. Thipatrai Salaewong presented findings underscoring the public's demand for structural reforms to combat illicit capital interference.
The survey results indicate that nearly half of the public feels directly impacted by corruption, while 22% of businesses cite a lack of transparency as detrimental to fair competition and investor confidence. A significant 71% of respondents advocate for systemic anti-corruption policies from the new government.
Political party positions on corruption significantly influence voting decisions, with 88% of businesses and 70% of the public considering anti-corruption stances crucial. A notable portion of the business sector and public, 34% and 33% respectively, would refrain from supporting parties lacking clear anti-corruption strategies.
Specific political behaviors linked to corruption, such as appointing individuals with criminal records or engaging in vote-buying, face widespread rejection. The survey reveals that 91% of businesses and 68% of the population expect party leaders to demonstrate transparency and accountability.
Concrete proposals for government action include implementing an Open Budget system, expanding Integrity Pacts in government projects, and establishing mechanisms to track unusual financial transactions. The survey calls for a national war room to integrate financial and political data to prevent the infiltration of illicit funds into public policy.
Reflecting the views of 4,814 nationwide respondents, the survey indicates a desire for systemic change beyond mere crackdowns, focusing on closing loopholes that allow illicit capital to influence politics. The Zero Corruption Working Group warns that without urgent action, Thailand risks long-term economic instability and loss of political autonomy to "grey capital."