Democrats vow higher standards, even from opposition

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva told a final campaign rally in Bangkok yesterday that the general election tomorrow is not about taking sides; it is about choosing the right path for the country’s survival.

He said Thailand is beset by chronic corruption, a huge “grey” business sector undermining the economic system and public confidence, sluggish growth compared with regional neighbours, social inequality, divisive politics, and border insecurity complicated by febrile geopolitics.

Addressing these critical problems, he said, must begin with political accountability and transparency, which require higher standards than the legal minimum.

Abhisit, former prime minister, recalled that the previous Democrat-led administration required potential ministers to comply with stricter party standards before assuming office.

The Democrat leader said the party is equally ready to perform its duty to keep a check on the government from the opposition benches, even if it wins only one House seat.

Meanwhile, Korn Chatikavanij, the party’s deputy leader, told the audience that he decided to return to politics because of his serious concern over the size of the country’s “grey” economy and conflicts of interest in Thai politics, which he said are threatening the foundations of the economy and foreign confidence in Thailand.

If this situation continues for the next four or five years, he warned, foreign financial institutions may become reluctant to do business in or with Thailand.

Korn said his feelings about tomorrow’s election are the same as when he first entered politics many years ago — a feeling that “there is nothing to lose”. This, he said, has emboldened him to confront the “grey” businesses and corruption without fear.

He also said the party has taken a firm position on not partnering with parties that fail to take a clear stand against corruption and the “grey” economy.