Thai PM outlines four priorities in draft policy statement

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that his government has prepared a draft policy statement for submission to the Parliament, aimed at guiding national governance until the next general election.

The draft highlights four main priorities: the economy, security, disaster management, and social issues. On the economic front, the government intends to lower living costs through initiatives such as the co-payment scheme “Khon La Khrueng” and by reducing transport, logistics, and energy expenses, while also promoting greater use of alternative energy.

In terms of security, the government plans a dual approach to border disputes, particularly with Cambodia, combining diplomacy with military strategies to safeguard sovereignty. For disaster management, it aims to accelerate early warning systems and streamline regulations to ensure swift and transparent relief, while tightening anti-corruption measures.

On social issues, the government is preparing strong actions against drug trafficking, gambling, including online platforms, and large-scale scams. Officials involved in wrongdoing will face strict disciplinary and legal measures, including immediate suspension and prosecution.

The prime minister also emphasised support for farmers, pledging to address low crop prices and curb illegal cross-border trade that undermines domestic markets. Other commitments include improving public healthcare for all age groups, pursuing education-related legal reforms, and steering Thailand toward a low-carbon society to enhance global competitiveness.

In addition, the government plans to hold a referendum on constitutional amendments alongside the next general election, allowing the public to participate in drafting a new charter. Anutin said the House of Representatives would be dissolved within four months of the policy statement being presented, likely in January 2026, paving the way for elections in March or early April.

He further noted that the Cabinet has streamlined meeting procedures to reduce bureaucracy and improve project implementation, and he instructed ministers to be available seven days a week and attend extra weekly meetings if necessary to address urgent national matters./.