Thai Political History Suffers a Deep Wound from the September 19, 2006 Coup, According to Phumtham
The Pheu Thai Party, successor of the Thai Rak Thai administration, continues to stand firm on the path of democracy, championing economic, educational, welfare, and information democracy. This party, led by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra, has been a beacon of hope for many Thais, promising tangible changes in the form of universal healthcare, education policies, and economic initiatives.
The Thai Rak Thai government, under Thaksin's leadership, had proven that 'people's democracy' could deliver real changes. One of the most notable achievements was the implementation of the 30-baht universal health insurance scheme, which provided affordable health insurance to millions of Thais.
However, the Thai Rak Thai government was ousted in a coup on September 19, 2006. Thaksin, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, is currently serving a one-year prison term at Klongprem Central Prison. Despite this, the Pheu Thai Party remains committed to the future of Thai democracy.
Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug 22, 2023, after more than 15 years of self-exile abroad. His return marked a significant moment for the party, as he outlined its vision of democracy in practice. The Pheu Thai Party's vision remains focused on transforming the words in the constitution into everyday reality for citizens.
The party believes in economic democracy, ensuring equal opportunity for all. They also champion educational democracy, supporting lifelong learning without leaving anyone behind. The Pheu Thai Party also promotes welfare democracy, guaranteeing basic rights to health insurance, education, and housing.
In addition, the Pheu Thai Party emphasizes information democracy, promoting transparency and accountability. They also support local democracy, empowering communities to shape their own futures.
Pheu Thai Party deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai described the Sept 19, 2006 coup as a 'deep wound' in Thailand's political history. The scars from the coup remain to this day through distorted constitutions and rules that have suppressed the future of Thai people for nearly 20 years. Hope was stolen, society's learning process was dismantled, and the country was dragged backwards due to the coup.
Despite these challenges, the 'Thai Rak Thai spirit' has never been destroyed, according to Mr Phumtham. The party continues to advocate for democracy, believing that it is the key to a better future for the Thai people. The Pheu Thai Party's commitment to democracy in practice remains unwavering, as they strive to transform Thailand into a truly democratic nation.
