Democrat Leader Pushes Gov't for Flood Relief, More Funds Needed

On July 12, 2569, at Buri Sri Phu Hotel in Hat Yai, Songkhla province, Abhisit Vejjajiva, Democrat Party list MP and party leader, spoke following a party seminar on addressing recent flooding in the province. He stated that Hat Yai's flood crisis has been politicized unnecessarily, but acknowledged that the government has already allocated 99.5 million baht and proposed solutions to the government. However, he emphasized the government should do more, as problems persist.

Abhisit reported that the party seminar proposed accelerating disaster recovery and processing outstanding compensation claims. He called for the government to assist businesses, particularly through flexible credit policies and interest rate holidays from financial institutions. He also advocated for the Bank of Thailand to monitor relief efforts.

During the seminar, participants identified a need for 200-300 million baht for canal dredging and replacement equipment beyond the existing 99.5 million baht allocation. Abhisit stressed the government should prepare evacuation and shelter plans, with local authorities and private sectors ready to serve as coordinators.

Proposals also included future flood prevention through road elevation, railway repairs, embankment reinforcement, and Songkhla Lake development. Participants suggested developing high-potential urban areas for wellness, food, and technology industries, alongside enforcing water management and city planning regulations. Abhisit emphasized these were non-political matters aimed at preventing recurrence and assuring residents of sustainable solutions.

The party's seminar theme, "Clear Southern Sky, Moving Forward Together," signified the Democrat Party's commitment to supporting and providing hope for the southern region's development, requiring unified cooperation.