Bangkok: Ekniti criticized populist policies for gaining public support but lacking accountability, boasting that the Bhumjaithai Party focuses on achievable policies that are cost-effective, emphasizing the empowerment of Thai people and the value of taxpayer money. Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, a member of the Bhumjaithai Party's economic dream team, was interviewed about whether there would be any surprises in the final stages of the campaign. He stated that the Bhumjaithai Party's policies have been carefully considered and do not only help urban residents or market vendors, but also the elderly through the "Senior Plus" project. This project will equip retired individuals with vocational skills to effectively enter the world of sales, particularly online sales.
According to Thai News Agency, in addition, there is the Community Plus project, which aims to stimulate the economy by eliminating the need for people to travel to Bangkok for work, allowing their children to stay with their families. Regarding the potential impact of some political parties' populist policies in the final stages of the campaign on the economic structure, Mr. Ekniti stated that the Bhumjaithai Party carefully considers its economic policies, taking into account fiscal discipline. The party will strive to avoid policies that negatively impact fiscal discipline and the country's economic system. Populist policies may garner public support, but they lack accountability. The Bhumjaithai Party's policies are feasible, cost-effective, and genuinely benefit the people. The party has submitted policies to the Election Commission (EC) that prioritize minimal budget allocation and focus on skills development.
Regarding whether populist policies implemented in the final stages will win over the public, Mr. Ekniti stated that the feedback on the Bhumjaithai Party's policies so far has been very positive, demonstrating their effectiveness in targeting specific groups and resonating with small business owners. He believes this policy will best address the needs of these vendors, as the feedback indicates they like it and want the party to return.
Regarding the use of the 3.2 billion baht budget for one policy, Mr. Ekniti stated that each policy has both advantages and disadvantages. He declined to comment on other parties' policies, but said that Bhumjaithai considers cost-effectiveness because the budget comes from taxpayers' money, and therefore must be used efficiently and effectively to clearly revive the economy.
While academics have opined that extreme populism is ruining the economic structure, Mr. Ekniti stated that he would not comment on other parties, but importantly, the Bhumjaithai Party is confident that it can revive the economy, make Thai people more skilled, and strengthen the economy. Furthermore, they have other policies, including attracting foreign investment which will inject money into Thailand and enhance the country's competitiveness on a global level.