Bangkok: The Prime Minister, Paethongtarn Shinawatra, is set to travel to the southern provinces of Songkhla and Pattani on December 6th to oversee the response and relief efforts for the ongoing flooding crisis. The decision to personally visit the affected areas comes in the wake of criticisms on social media about her absence during the initial phases of the disaster.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister had always intended to visit the flood-affected regions but was initially delayed due to a pre-scheduled mobile cabinet meeting in Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai. Despite social media outcry over her absence, she clarified that her decision to visit was not influenced by external pressure. Instead, she aims to provide direct support and encouragement to flood victims and monitor the situation closely.
In preparation for her visit, there will be a meeting of the Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation on December 2nd to finalize the schedule and locations for her inspection. The Prime Min
ister has tasked Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, her Secretary-General, with coordinating with various agencies to expedite relief efforts, particularly in areas lacking necessary equipment. Additionally, arrangements have been made with the Ministry of Defense to deploy soldiers to aid residents and accelerate the compensation process, ensuring that assistance is delivered promptly.
Throughout the flooding, the Prime Minister maintained oversight and directed Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, to work with relevant agencies and the military to support the affected communities. The government has also recently authorized the release of disaster relief funds to the southern region to speed up the assistance efforts for those impacted by the floods.