Bangkok: The Pheu Thai Party has declared its readiness for the upcoming elections, while criticizing the government's decision to dissolve parliament, describing it as an effort to evade scrutiny and accountability. Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, the leader of the Pheu Thai Party, along with Mr. Prasert Chantharawongthong, the party's secretary-general, conducted a press conference following a meeting with party leaders and former MPs.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chulaphan read a statement highlighting the government's dissolution of parliament as a failure in governance. The statement pointed to unresolved border conflicts, the misuse of civil servant transfers, budget allocations favoring certain groups, a decline in international credibility, and issues in the justice system as key failures. He emphasized that the government's actions have not been sincere in amending the constitution, as initial agreements were not based on democratic principles.
Mr. Chulaphan further mentioned that the government's actions have given an opportunity to the Bhumjaithai Party to consolidate power. He also revealed that the People's Party had negotiated with Pheu Thai to delay scrutiny of the government, but the dissolution of parliament was demanded, allowing the government to avoid accountability. Despite political instability, Pheu Thai reassures the public that it remains committed to addressing urgent national issues and is prepared for the elections.
The party is set to announce its prime ministerial candidates on December 16, under the campaign "Overhauling Thailand: Pheu Thai Can Do It," which will include policies on the economy, infrastructure, and quality of life. Mr. Prasert confirmed the party's preparedness, stating that candidates have been fielded in all 400 constituencies and are awaiting the Election Commission's announcement of the election date.
In response to media speculation about the party's prime ministerial candidates, Mr. Julaphan urged patience until December 16, when the candidates will be officially announced. He assured that the candidates will be individuals whose ideas and ideology align with the party and who are well-recognized in society, aiming to strengthen Pheu Thai's position in the election. Mr. Julaphan expressed confidence that the announcement will rejuvenate the party's popularity and provide a clear vision of what Pheu Thai intends to offer the electorate.