Thailand’s new prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul presented his policy platform on Monday, with quick-fix measures to ease the rising cost of living as well as promises to win back tourists, while committing to dissolving parliament in just four months to end the country’s political stalemate.
Advertisement
The country’s third prime minister in two years, faces twin challenges: economic woes exacerbated by a stubbornly strong baht and a security threat as the ceasefire with Cambodia threatens to unravel.
Anutin’s already complex task is made more difficult by leading a minority government that only secured opposition support on the condition that he calls new elections.
Speaking to lawmakers, the construction tycoon-turned politician recognised that his time-limited government means he will not be able to address structural issues.
“Four months from now, by January 31, I will dissolve parliament. That’s my commitment under the agreement,” Anutin told the lower chamber. “This is an interim government that has come in to address the damage caused by the previous administration,” including to the economy and “dignity of the nation,” he said.
Advertisement
Instead, Anutin vowed a quick roll-out of a co-payment scheme to subsidise food costs at restaurants, a measure designed to help Thais save money and boost consumption amid slow economic growth.