Bangkok: Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, has called on the government to urgently address the economic challenges facing citizens, particularly issues related to household debts. He has taken a firm stance against the establishment of "free casinos," which he believes would benefit capitalists at the expense of the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya Tawichai, spokesperson for the Palang Pracharath Party, highlighted Gen. Prawit's concern about the lack of effective solutions from the government during these economically challenging times. Gen. Prawit has instructed MPs and candidates to engage directly with the public to understand their struggles better. Visits by party leaders, including Mr. Suradet Yasawat, Mr. Chaimongkol Chairob, Mr. Chakaj Pattanakitwibul, and Mr. Sutham Charitngam, revealed that the prices of agricultural products, such as raw milk and palm oil, are at historic lows, with no relief measures in sight.
The lack of coordination among ministries like Agriculture and Cooperatives, Commerce, and Foreign Affairs has exacerbated the problem, affecting crop prices and farmers' incomes. According to figures from the Bank of Thailand, 25.5 million Thais, or 38.2% of the population, are in debt, with an average debt of 539,291 baht per person. The government's "You Fight, We Help" debt resolution project has been ineffective in alleviating these burdens.
Gen. Prawit has criticized the government's failure to implement key policies promised during election campaigns, such as developing the economic system, increasing GDP by 5%, and raising minimum wages. He pointed out that the government's actions, like increasing oil tax, have made Thailand's oil prices higher than neighboring countries, undermining economic competitiveness.
The party leader has also voiced opposition to projects like the digital currency initiative, G-Token, and particularly the proposal for free casinos as part of the Integrated Entertainment Act. Gen. Prawit and his party members are committed to preventing the establishment of free casinos, which they argue would serve the interests of specific individuals or groups.
Additionally, Gen. Prawit expressed concern over flooding in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai Province, and has tasked Mr. Suradet with inspecting and aiding those affected by the disaster.