BANGKOK, Dec 22 – Caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra today called on the Democrat Party to adhere to the parliamentary system over its decision to boycott the general election set for February 2.
The caretaker premier who is now in Udon Thani province amid supportive crowds said it is unfortunate that the Democrat Party has announced to boycott the upcoming election considering the party has a history of protecting democratic and parliamentary systems.
The Democrat Party has decided to boycott the election set for February 2, saying it has considered it thoroughly and would be ready to contest only after countrywide political reform has been completed.
Ms Yingluck noted that the Democrats want political reform, but refused to compete in an election.
She expressed concern that the country cannot move forward, adding that respecting the rules and participating in elections will lead to reforms.
“If they do not accept this government, they must accept the system. The government has already returned power to the people and let them decide the future of the country,” said Ms Yingluck.
“The government has done everything, both promising reform and the House dissolution,” stated the caretaker premier. “Our remaining duty now is the responsibility we have to implement the general election, and Pheu Thai Party is duty-bound to run in the election.”
Following the proposal on the ratification of countrywide reform by all political parties, Ms Yingluck said the idea has received good feedbacks from many sectors, but noted that everybody needs to agree to it, especially the protesters.
