Pheu Thai’s PM candidate vows to tap the potential of new generation
Thailand should tackle problems of people’s standard of living and geopolitics as soon as possible, Pheu Thai Party's prime minister candidate, Srettha Thavisin, said on Monday.
In an interview with Thai newspaper Krungthep Turakij, he said Thailand has almost lost its position on the international stage, as the country had not showed its identity and potential over the past eight years.
"Thailand has resources that many people want, but we need to be proud and humble in trading because we cannot rely only on ourselves," he said.
It is necessary to consider problems case by case, as some problems should be solved immediately, he said, adding that taking care of problems in a proper way may result in benefit for many generations of people.
"We have to take care of people, not just amending some rules," he said. "We should tackle problems step by step as some problems are easy to deal with."
Srettha, who is also president of real estate developer Sansiri, said the government should meet all groups of people's needs, especially the new generation who will be the country's power in the future.
He said that the current government had failed to gain the confidence of the new generation due to communication errors.
"I believe that our country’s leaders have good intentions, but they have to improve their communication," he said. "We should be a good role model for the new generation, otherwise it would be like pouring oil on the fire."
He added that he was not calling for a reform, but a change in mindset.
"I believe that proper communication will help attract people without forcing them," he added.
He said the general election next year will be turning point for Thailand, adding that many businessmen want to see clarity in the country’s administration.
He also pointed out that political conflict so far had affected economic growth, even though Thailand has the potential to boost its economy.
"The government should have looked at the roots of the conflict," he said. "If there is any correction, the government should not do it with one group of people because it would affect others."
If he were to be elected as prime minister in the upcoming general election, Srettha vowed to tackle four big issues: people's standard of living; the constitution; geopolitics; and people rights, liberty and equality.
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