Challenges for Thailand's Government Ahead of Elections

The Thai government, under the leadership of Phaethongthae, is confronting significant challenges as it approaches the upcoming elections in 2027. There are concerns about whether the government will be able to complete its term, as public trust appears fragile due to uncertainties in the economic landscape. Rising household debt is a critical issue that the administration must address, especially given the mixed sentiments amongst various stakeholders regarding the economy's direction. Furthermore, the government has convened meetings with the Joint Private Sector Committee to find solutions to economic problems. Among the proposed measures are four essential plans: supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), managing water resources effectively, and improving the country's competitiveness. Recent public opinion polls conducted by NIDA indicate that 41.6% of respondents believe the government has a chance of completing its term, although there is a notable concern that if the economic situation does not improve as expected, this could jeopardize its stability. Additionally, the government has committed to freezing prices for essential goods and electricity as part of its resolution strategies. There's also criticism involving the government's responses to parliamentary inquiries, illustrating ongoing scrutiny and accountability issues within the administration.