Bangkok: Khattiya Sawatdipol, a party-list MP and deputy spokesperson for the Pheu Thai Party, recently took a jab at the Bhumjaithai Party, suggesting they shouldn’t fear accusations of being labeled a “Bhumjai Claim.” She encouraged them to proceed with implementing Pheu Thai’s policies such as the 20-baht train fare, government-to-government rice sales to China, and the continuation of the retirement lottery, while advising the government to prioritize public interests over political gamesmanship.
According to Thai News Agency, Khattiya addressed the government’s performance under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who has sustained various Pheu Thai policies and initiatives. She expressed satisfaction on behalf of the public, particularly regarding the extension of the 20-baht flat-rate electric train fare pilot project for another two months. Khattiya highlighted that the Prime Minister could easily instruct the Minister of Transport to gather data to evaluate the initiative’s viability, as it requires minimal budgeting. She suggested extending the project for another year or even expanding it to cover all routes, given that the Pheu Thai Party has already implemented 90% of the project.
The 30-baht universal healthcare policy is also poised for further development by Prime Minister Anutin, a move Khattiya sees as positive. This effort builds on foundations laid by the Thai Rak Thai, People’s Power, and Pheu Thai governments. The continuation of government-to-government rice sales to China is another initiative she praised, noting the groundwork laid by former Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and the Pheu Thai government in prior negotiations with China. If these projects are truly sustained, it would signify a beneficial step forward.
Khattiya also mentioned the retirement lottery policy, which has garnered significant public interest. She urged the government to persist in this venture, encouraging citizens to benefit from the money, emphasizing that such projects rarely offer substantial benefits otherwise. She reassured the Bhumjaithai government that fears of being labeled as “Bhumjaithai Claim” are unfounded, as the public will ultimately judge their actions. Her main request was for the government to act with honesty, accountability, and a focus on initiatives that benefit the populace.
Finally, Khattiya emphasized the Pheu Thai Party’s stance that the needs of the people should always precede political gains. She reaffirmed the party’s preparedness for elections, government scrutiny, and its commitment to evolving and rebuilding public trust. The Pheu Thai Party stands ready to overhaul itself and address the people’s needs, with plans to revamp Thailand in the coming month.