Pheu Thai’s Digital Wallet Plan Faces Criticism from Academic

[webfact]

 

Pheu Thai's ambitious plan to distribute 10,000-baht digital wallet payouts might not translate into sustained political popularity, as pointed out by political scientist Pornchai Theppanya. The former dean of Ramkhamhaeng University's Political Science Faculty opined that the populist measure, spearheaded by Thaksin Shinawatra’s party, is unlikely to secure long-term voter loyalty.

 

Pornchai highlighted that although over 10 million people voted for Pheu Thai in the last general election, largely due to the promise of these handouts, the next election might not see the same level of support. He believes, "When people hit the polls next, they won’t easily remember this 10,000-baht scheme as a reason to stick with Pheu Thai," likening it to a fleeting giveaway.

 

The academic noted the historical precedence of short-lived benefits from similar populist strategies. He cited the declining popularity of Ruam Thai Sang Chart, led by former coup leader and ex-PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, despite various giveaway initiatives like co-payment schemes and state welfare cards. "The parallel here is telling. Just because a party gives money away doesn’t mean people will stay loyal," Pornchai remarked.

 

The Pheu Thai's central project is set to use government funding ranging between 450 to 500 billion baht. This substantial financial commitment, derived from taxpayers' money, may not be enough to overcome voter scepticism. Pornchai suggested that people are becoming more discerning and might see through the populist ploy.

 

Adding to this complexity, Pornchai pointed out that Thaksin might be clinging to the past glories of his erstwhile popular Thai Rak Thai campaign, rather than adapting to current political dynamics. He mentioned that even Thaksin’s famed 30-baht healthcare initiative, often touted as a major achievement, was initially crafted by rural doctors, not the party itself.

 

In a surprising political move, Thaksin has recently cozied up to Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, a clear indication of the shifting alliances in Thai politics. Pornchai sees this as a desperate bid to maintain relevance in the ever-evolving political landscape where traditional ties and rivalries often blur.

 

In summary, while the 10,000-baht digital wallets might offer short-term gains, the long-term political efficacy remains questioned, highlighting the complex nature of voter loyalty in contemporary Thai politics.

 

Artwork courtesy: Thai Rath

 

-- 2024-07-26

 

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[2baht]

Pheu Thai’s Digital Wallet Plan Faces Criticism from Academic

Now the Digital Money Bag is even being criticized by the tea lady and street sweepers!

[hotchilli]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

The former dean of Ramkhamhaeng University's Political Science Faculty opined that the populist measure, spearheaded by Thaksin Shinawatra’s party, is unlikely to secure long-term voter loyalty.

The Shinawatras never learn from past bribe tactics, stuck in the past and keeping Thailand firmly there with them.

[bob smith]

it faces criticism from me too.

 

it is an absolutely appalling idea and should be shelved immediately!

 

bob.

[Tropicalevo]

2 hours ago, 2baht said:

Now the Digital Money Bag is even being criticized by the tea lady and street sweepers!

Maybe because they do not have smart phones or easily available internet?

[Srikcir]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

likening it to a fleeting giveaway.

As the public did in response to PM Prayut numerous "gifts" to the public during his tenure. A decade of declining economy under Prayut was more destructive than gifts could recover.

[Will B Good]

If there are no wider economic benefits from this election bribe they will be in even more trouble come the next election

 

People forget financial incentives very quickly.

 

The will never forget or forgive financial penalties such as higher inflation, increased borrowing costs, increased mortgage premiums......ask the Tories and the UK electorate.

Edited July 26 by Will B Good

[scorecard]

5 hours ago, 2baht said:

Pheu Thai’s Digital Wallet Plan Faces Criticism from Academic

Now the Digital Money Bag is even being criticized by the tea lady and street sweepers!

In my family the Thai adults are convinced it will never happen.

[newbee2022]

Even people with brain will not change these idiotic ideas to waste money, hoping to get the voters in the next election.😵‍💫

[Humpy]

How can I tip the Go Go dancer with a digital wallet ?........  perhaps a QR code tattoo on her bum might be an idea !!