PHEU THAI PARTY
Restoring democracy is fundamental for solving problems besetting the country.
Pheu Thai acting secretary-general Phumtham Wechayachai said one of the party’s major policies is to decentralise and devolve state power to local levels, and allow people to play a bigger part in political decision-making.
During its four years in power, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has centralised state operations using bureaucratic mechanisims to wield control over political and social life while ignoring the views of the people.
Under NCPO rule, various rules were introduced, along with the 2017 constitution, which were not designed to shore up political parties’ strength, Mr Phumtham said.
“Of course, if we become government, we’ll have to restore democracy because this will lead to solutions to economic, political and social problems.’’
“Any rules and regulations that are undemocratic, not conducive to political development and do not promote people’s rights must be changed,” he said.
In particular, the coup-sponsored 2017 constitution, which undermines parties, must be amended, he said.
Pheu Thai wants to propose ways to restore democracy and change the rules which allow the regime to cling on to power.
It also wants to create a climate conducive to the growth of the civil sector, promote political institutions and encourage more public participation, Mr Phumtham said.
On economic policy, Pheu Thai will pursue policies aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy which in turn is crucial for the country’s economy and progress.
Mr Phumtham said the country’s demographic profile is rapidly changing, posing new challenges.
The ageing population is a concern for the party, he said, adding future governments must pay greater attention to the issue and come up with policies which provide better care for them.
Of a population of an estimated 67-68 million, more than 20% are elderly people.
There are also about 7-8 million people aged between 18-25 who make up the workforce of the country, a wealth of talent and energy waiting to be tapped, he said.
It is important to give them a chance to express themselves and take part in efforts to solve the country’s problems, he said.
He also acknowledged that the emerging lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Thailand is a force to be reckoned with, and future policy-makers must recognise the rights of all genders.