Srettha vows better governance amid sliding popularity in new poll

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledged to enhance the government’s performance following a recent opinion poll indicating a decline in his popularity and that of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, now trailing behind their main political rivals.

The National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) conducted a quarterly poll revealing that the popularity of the Thai premier and Pheu Thai has decreased, while Pita Limjaroenrat and the Move Forward Party (MFP) have gained support. This trend persists despite the government’s efforts to revitalise the economy.

Released yesterday, the poll results showed that only 12.85% of voters now support the prime minister, a significant drop from 17.75% in the previous survey. Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra also experienced a decline in popularity, from 6% to 4.85%.

Some supporters surveyed highlighted 62 year old prime minister’s decisiveness and commitment to addressing their issues. Paetongtarn was commended for her vision, leadership, and understanding of Thailand’s problems.

During an official visit to the northeast of Thailand, PM Srettha stated in Surin that he remains committed to listening to the concerns of Thai citizens. This marked his second visit to the region within a week.

In response to public criticism, the Bangkok-born PM reduced his overseas trips but maintained that some international visits are essential to attract foreign investment to Thailand.

Must work harder

“The poll reflects what people think about our work. We must work harder and try to find out what the people really want and provide what they need while also solving their problems.”

The Thai prime minister affirmed that he and his Cabinet would continue to travel across the country to engage with citizens’ concerns until the end of his four-year term. When questioned about potential strategy adjustments to regain public trust, Srettha responded,

“We constantly adjust our strategy, whether there is a poll or not. The opinion survey is part of the feedback for the government.”

He acknowledged that some key government policies have yet to be implemented, partly due to delays in budget approval for the current fiscal year, which was finalised about two months ago.

The 3.48 trillion-baht budget for the 2024 fiscal year, which started on October 1 last year, was only passed in April after prolonged government formation following the last election.

“I don’t want to use the budget as an excuse every time… [but] we have to admit that it affected the government’s performance. We need some time [to improve],” said Srettha.

The NIDA poll showed MFP Chief Adviser Pita maintaining his lead among prime minister candidates with a 45.5% approval rating, up slightly from 42.75% in the previous quarter.

Additionally, United Thai Nation Party leader Pirapan Salirathavibhaga saw his popularity nearly double, rising from 3.55% to 6.85%.

Respondents expressed admiration for Pita’s political ideology and comprehensive knowledge, while Pirapan was praised for his credibility, clean image, and honesty, reported Bangkok Post.