Newin heralds people power
Former ace politician Newin Chidchob hasn’t worn trousers for five years as these days he prefers a simple life on the farm or riding his bike, says Matichon Weekly.
Mr Newin turned his back on politics five years ago to devote his time to developing sports culture, especially a football club in his hometown of Buri Ram.
His Buri Ram United Football Club is now a top team in the Premier League. “I do not talk to politicians. I have never meddled with them. I have lived like this for the past five years. The day I said I would quit, I quit,’’ Mr Newin said.
“I wanted to prove to people that fostering development, creating jobs and generating income does not always require power from politics. I have proven that,’’ Mr Newin said.
The former leading member of the Bhumjaithai Party said that as a career politician, he used to think political power would help him solve poverty.
“The result was zero. Before the province of Buri Ram was associated with backwardness. Now, people don’t feel embarrassed wearing a T-shirt that says Buri Ram. This makes me proud,’’ Mr Newin said.
He said he rarely attends social functions these days, and always checks on the dress code when he gets an invitation.
“If I have to wear trousers or a jacket, I would send an envelope instead. I live in a pair of shorts, T-shirt and sneakers. I have not worn trousers for five years,’’ Mr Newin said.
He said sports can help stimulate the economy during downturns like the present one.
Sporting events attended by world champions and watched by hundreds of thousands are the best way to show the country is safe and peaceful.
“There is no need for roadshows or for diplomats to carry out negotiations. We don’t need to hire lobbyists at expensive rates,’’ Mr Newin said.
He said the arrival of tourists with high purchasing power will also rejuvenate the economy.
Mr Newin travels between Bangkok and Buri Ram several times a month on a so-called big bike. He said riding motorcycles helps calm his mind and helps him solve problems.
Mr Newin said his family had been in politics for a long time but they did not gain as much affection from the public as they do now that he has quit.
“Today, I am Uncle Newin everywhere I go. I am not His Excellency. I am just an uncle who gives people joy, love and richness,’’ Mr Newin said.
He added that people’s livelihoods are more important than the kind of government they have in place. “Whether the government comes from an election or a coup does not matter for villagers. What is important is their livelihoods. Make the economy grow. Change people’s lives. Protests in Thailand all stem from bread-and-butter issues,’’ Mr Newin said.