Musical chairs: parties woo MPs following dissolution of parliament

Article Abstract:

Thailand's Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai's decision to dissolve Parliament when his coalition evaporated led to chaos among political parties suddenly preparing for the July 2 elections. Chuan heads a caretaker govt that is unlikely to make progress on the infrastructure and economic liberalization measures Parliament left unfinished. The Democrats are still powerful but Chart Thai has successfully made up some of the disadvantages afflicting it in the last elections and could do equally well. New party Nam Thai could also do well.

Political activity, Democratic Party (Thailand)

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Rural reality

Article Abstract:

Thailand's political tradition encourages using patronage systems to buy votes, a practice supporters say gives everyone what they need but critics contend creates an incompetent parliament. The current campaign will see some 17 billion baht spent, up from 12 billion in 1992, and MPs must spend about 1 million baht a month, each, to keep their patronage systems operating. In most villages, a headman negotiates with candidates and orders the residents to vote for the one making the best promises of direct aid.

Cover Story, Patronage, Political, Political patronage

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Things to come: Banharn plans more of the same, served more quickly

Article Abstract:

Thai Prime Minister Banharn Silpaarcha promises extensive infrastructure projects, free health care, and lower taxes as his administration gets rolling. The new construction seems to be a windfall for well-connected companies, while a plan to install 6 million new telephone lines based on govt concessions could encourage graft. Reforms to the political system would require the newly dominant Chart Thai Party to renounce the policies that brought it back to power.

Economic development, Political reform

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