Bangkok: The Bhumjaithai Party has unveiled a new video titled "Workshop Hometown: Towards Sustainable Local Development" on its social media platforms. The initiative calls for significant changes in local governance, including removing the limit on the number of terms local executives can serve and allowing individuals as young as 25 to hold executive positions. The party proposes empowering citizens to decide how hometown taxes are allocated for local development.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Deputy Minister of Interior, discussed the Homeland Act as a vital tool for local development. She emphasized that while the central government currently decides on budget allocations, the Act would enable local governments to prioritize projects that truly matter to their communities.
Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, MP for Buriram and secretary-general of the Bhumjaithai Party, highlighted the importance of involving citizens in the party's decision-making processes. He emphasized the need for a sufficient and unencumbered budget, along with capable local administrators, to achieve development and prosperity.
Ms. Pimprueda Tanjararak, MP for Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Deputy Secretary-General of the Bhumjaithai Party, explained the party's stance on decentralization. She argued against the current tenure limits, stating that such restrictions hinder long-term projects. Pimprueda advocated for lowering the age requirement for local executives from 35 to 25, underscoring that success is determined by ability rather than age.
Ms. Phakamas Charoenphan, MP for Surin and deputy spokesperson for the party, addressed the constraints of government funding. She noted that the Decentralization Act of 2005 mandates that 30 percent of collected funds go to local administrative organizations, but much of this budget is currently allocated to welfare, leaving insufficient funds for local projects.
Mr. Chalat Ratchakitprakan, a party-list MP and executive, spoke about the Homeland Act's approach to using taxes for local development. He advocated for giving taxpayers more control over their contributions, suggesting that a portion of corporate taxes be directed to local areas to support development efforts.
Mr. Chaichanok concluded by expressing hope that the initiative would allow citizens to play a significant role in national budget decisions, thereby enhancing local development efforts.