Bangkok: “Prit” has expressed strong criticism towards government agencies for their lack of unity and failure to effectively address the ongoing flooding problems. He highlighted three urgent issues that require immediate action and proposed the idea of sharing both happiness and suffering. Local MPs and members of the public are encouraged to gather their grievances and communicate them through the media, intending to bring them to the attention of the Cabinet.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Parit Wacharasindhu, who serves as a party-list MP and spokesman for the People’s Party, spoke about the flooding crisis affecting many regions. He mentioned that party MPs have been actively visiting the affected areas to assist residents and assess the situation. The MPs are compiling suggestions for the government, which will be presented during the Cabinet meeting scheduled for tomorrow. Mr. Parit emphasized several key issues, including the need to:

1. Reevaluate the drainage plan to ensure equitable distribution of relief efforts, preventing the concentration of assistance in particular areas.

2. Address the timing and criteria for compensation, as current practices provide financial aid only after the floods recede. He noted that people are already suffering from reduced incomes, disrupted work, and increased expenses during the floods.

3. Improve coordination with local agencies to establish evacuation centers or shelters that meet adequate standards, as some residents have been forced to take refuge on flooded streets.

Mr. Pris expressed concerns about the perception that the government’s response has been slow and overly reliant on delegating decision-making power to various agencies. He pointed out that the lack of unity among ministries, particularly in water management, hampers effective collaboration. This involves multiple agencies, such as the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) and the Royal Irrigation Department.

Additionally, Mr. Pris raised questions about the government’s approach to tackling the scammer issue. He referenced the recent declaration by the Prime Minister to combat scammers, which involved signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU). He questioned the necessity of such an MOU among government agencies, suggesting that serious work should commence without formal agreements within governmental departments. The lack of unity continues to be a significant obstacle in addressing these challenges.