Prayut defends six questions
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha yesterday defended the six political questions he asked the public, saying he did not have a political agenda when drafting them.
The premier’s questions, announced on Wednesday, raised concerns regarding the performance of long-standing politicians and their parties.
They asked the public if the country would prefer the introduction of new faces in politics in order to implement effective reforms.
They also questioned whether the National Council for Peace and Order’s (NCPO) efforts throughout its three-year stint as the governing body have resulted in a brighter future for Thailand.
However, Gen Prayut yesterday denied any politically-led preconceived ideas regarding the questions. He was speaking in his weekly address broadcast programme yesterday.
“I, as the prime minister and the head of the NCPO, do not have any political intentions with this or wish to create disputes with honourable politicians who have contributed to the country,” he said. “I merely wish to create understanding and encourage people to think about issues.”
The premier urged political parties to follow the National Strategy to ensure consistent reforms across all dimensions.
In question number four, he said the political situation in Thailand prior to the NCPO intervening had been blighted by constant violence and politically motivated segregation.
“Please take the time to listen to what I have been saying and think about my intentions. I do not wish to quarrel with anyone because I am here to promote reconciliation, including political reconciliation,” Gen Prayut said.
“Everyone should therefore reform themselves and their political parties for the benefit of the country and the people.
“If we are able to do this, governments will be able to complete their terms without having to call elections all the time, creating problems like before,” he added.
The prime minister said good governance will be key to addressing the country’s problems. He encouraged all parties to prioritise raising income levels and living standards for low earners.
Nevertheless, the questions have drawn flak from several former and current politicians, such as the former coordinator for the People’s Alliance for Democracy, Suriyasai Katasila.
According to Mr Suriyasai, the questions were an extension of the four queries made by the premier in May. He said Gen Prayut would likely remain prime minister regardless of the poll.
Former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva also raised concerns over the questions, the last one in particular, which asked the public why they think politicians have sought to discredit the government.
Mr Abhisit said this question itself is obviously politically motivated, as the public’s responses could cause conflict by angering politicians.
The second of Gen Prayut’s questions asked the public whether the NCPO should reserve the right to support a particular political party, as its members are not set to run in any upcoming election.
Democrat Party deputy leader Nipit Intarasombat criticised the question, and suggested that it was important for the government to remain impartial throughout the entire process.
He added that a government that seized power, and which has Section 44 to hand, could exert undue influence by supporting any one party.