Bangkok: Chalermpong Saengdee and Pakamon Nunanan, members of the People's Party, have raised alarms over the detrimental impact of the "blue regime" on business confidence in Phuket. They are urging the Bhumjaithai Party to address the issue and prevent internal power dynamics from adversely affecting the public.
According to Thai News Agency, during a press conference at the Parliament building following a shadow cabinet meeting, Mr. Chalermpong, MP for Phuket Constituency 2, and Ms. Pakamon, a party-list MP, expressed concerns regarding the entrenched influence of the "blue regime" in Phuket. Mr. Chalermpong emphasized that the issue extends beyond the transfer of local officials, highlighting a structural problem involving influential figures in the region.
Mr. Chalermpong disclosed that he received a cautionary warning from a police officer, indicating actions by influential figures who disregard the law. He further elaborated on how political power and vested interests are linked to high-ranking officials extorting money from the public, leading to frustration among business owners who are weary of paying bribes.
Chalermpong questioned whether the ministers and the prime minister, who visited tourist areas in Phuket, are aware of the underlying issues. He criticized the transfer of civil servants as a mere publicity stunt and called for a comprehensive investigation into the networks of influential figures in the province.
Ms. Pakamon echoed these sentiments, urging the Prime Minister to address the public truthfully about the situation in Phuket. She highlighted the impact of government officials' transfers on investment confidence, with business owners expressing uncertainty over whom to approach for safe investment.
She also emphasized the challenge faced by investors in Phuket, who must account for bribes in addition to business costs. Ms. Pakamon criticized the lack of action against the influential "blue regime," pointing to a leaked chat about supporting the regime and questioning the integrity of the transfers in Phuket.
Ms. Pakamon called for transparency from the minister regarding the influence of the "blue regime" and its connection to the governor's transfer. She stressed the importance of restoring public confidence and ensuring that internal political struggles do not burden the people.
In conclusion, Ms. Pakamon urged clarity on the Bhumjaithai Party's internal power dynamics, emphasizing that the repercussions should not fall on the public. The business community and citizens alike await decisive action to address these pressing concerns in Phuket.