Bangkok: coalition government strengthened by election round
For Prime Minister Abhisit the elections were a landslide after his appointment on 15 December in the wake of months of political crisis.
“I am grateful to Thais who cast their vote,” Mr Abhisit said. “I can reassure people that the additional seats that we gained will make the government work more smoothly in parliament.”
The by-elections were called after a court ordered the dissolution of some parties that were part of the former ruling coalition government.
Voters in 22 provinces chose from among 83 candidates representing 13 different parties.
The DP won seven seats, the Chart Thai Pattan, gained ten, and three went to the Pheu Pandin Party.
Now the government coalition can count on 259 seats, up from 239, in the 480-seat parliament.
The opposition won an additional nine seats, increasing from 198 to 207 seats.
The turnout was around 60 per cent.
The results now must be certified by the Election Commission and officially announced within one month.
“Those who voted have confirmed their faith in the democratic system,” Prime Minister Abhisit said, who was especially grateful for voters’ support for M.R. Sukhumbhan as Bangkok’s new governor. The latter’s task now will be to “continue the policies of his predecessor, also from the same party.”
Mr Abhisit reiterated that the coalition government will lead the country with “greater stability” and pledged to fulfill his task “with a greater sense of responsibility.”
The economic crisis, poverty, education, health care and the welfare of all Thais are among the priorities on his agenda.
Religious leaders also spoke out, making appeals in favour of stability and harmony.
“According to the Buddha’s principles we are all brothers and sisters. Unless we put aside hatred or take revenge, it will be rather difficult to build a peaceful society together,” said Phramahavuthichai Vachiramaetee
Fr Miguel Garaizabal, sj, cannot but agree. “In time of crisis religion should play an important role in building peace. We must be able to accept differences, respect human dignity and promote a society that is truly peaceful,” he said.
.png)
