Democrats, Pheu Thai unveil rival visions

The Democrat Party yesterday unveiled its policy vision, titled “How to Make Thailand Free from Poverty - Through Capable People”, calling for clean governance, stronger economic growth and a state that supports, rather than hinders, national development.

- AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

The policy forum coincided with the Pheu Thai Party's rollout of its “Debt Relief Policy’, a one-off package of five measures aimed at reducing household debt and restoring borrowers’ dignity. Democrat leader and prime ministerial candidate Abhisit Vejjajiva, joined by fellow candidates Korn Chatikavanij and Karndee Leopairote, said Thailand has endured economic stagnation over the past 15 years. Mr Korn noted GDP growth has slowed to about 2% a year, compared with more than 7% under a Democrat-led government after the global financial crisis.