UDD URGES PRAYUT TO SET UP PARTY

The red shirt United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship and the Pheu Thai Party have called on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to set up a political party and run for election if he wants to maintain power under democratic rules.

Speaking during a live video broadcast on her Facebook page yesterday, former UDD leader Tida Tawornseth urged Gen Prayut to form a new political party to compete in the next election if he wants to stay in power while respecting the democratic process.

Ms Tida said Gen Prayut’s idea of democracy might not be the same as Thai people’s. A prime minister, she insisted, must come to power via an election, which serves as proof that he or she is approved of by the people.

If a prime minister is selected by the Senate from outside the political parties’ lists, as some lawmakers advocated, that would not count as democratic, she said.

Ms Tida’s comments came after Gen Prayut’s statement that he would stay on even if he was not paid and the workload was heavier.

The premier was speaking at the prizegiving ceremony for government agencies which have excelled in financial management, held at Government House on Friday.

“Although I have to work harder or not receive salary, I will stick to my job [in the government],” he said.

UDD chairman Jatuporn Prompan also expressed his opinion via a live video on his Facebook page yesterday, saying even though Gen Prayut did not speak specifically of his political future, his words clearly indicated he will further retain his grip on power.

“Gen Prayut’s words don’t surprise me at all. On the other hand, I will be surprised if he steps down from his post and doesn’t become an outsider prime minister,” Mr Jatuporn added.

Worachai Hema, a former Pheu Thai MP for Samut Prakan, also criticised Gen Prayut for saying he did not want to enter into politics.

However, Mr Worachai said the premier may have now changed his mind, judging from his behaviour.

Government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the premier will stick to the government’s roadmap until the next election is held.

However, if anyone tries to stir conflict and disorder, it is the government’s duty to maintain peace and order to pave the way for a smooth election, he said.

“The prime minister doesn’t want to think about who will be his successor,” Maj Gen Sansern added.

“His current duty is to work as prime minister and the National Council for Peace and Order chief.

“He will work to his full capacity to meet the roadmap obligations.”