Surayud Stands Firm On Reform, Charter; Cites South, Justice As His Main Priorities

[Jai Dee]

Surayud stands firm on reform, charter; cites South, justice as his main priorities

In his New Year statement televised last night, Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont repeated his promise that his government would push for political reform and work out a new constitution.

He also raised the violence in the South as a major issue for the government, along with anti-corruption campaigns, good governance and the overhaul of the justice and legal systems.

Surayud did not mention any politicians or their parties or the reasons that led to the military coup on September 19.

He also highlighted the auspicious 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne last year as one of the delights enjoyed by the whole country, which will celebrate His Majesty's 80th birthday this year.

The celebrations will be a national agenda for Surayud's government and he called on the public to wear yellow and decorate their premises with yellow flags and the Royal Emblem marking the King's birthday.

"The government has maintained its aims to consolidate reconciliation among Thai people, to push for political reform and to write a constitution to lay a genuinely solid foundation for true democracy for the benefits of all Thai people," he said.

Surayud said his Cabinet would rely mainly on His Majesty's sufficiency economy in applying economic measures focused on giving all Thais sustainable prosperity.

He also cited the government's past contributions in its administrative roles, including delivery of relief assistance to victims of floods and landslides during the wet season.

Meanwhile, Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin said New Year charity rituals and celebrations hosted by the city administration would be held modestly.

Source: The Nation - 1 January 2007