BANGKOK, Jan 1 – Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is by far the most popular national political figure, while her predecessor Abhisit Vejjajiva has been voted the most impressive opposition politician, according to a new poll released on Sunday.
Ms Yingluck is thought of favourably by 77.7 percent of those polled, far ahead of Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung’s 13.9 percent showing, according to the ABAC Poll conducted by The Assumption University’s Poll Centre between December 20-31, 2011.
The survey conducted among 2,149 people aged above 18 in 17 provinces found Ms Yingluck is the most popular politicians on the ruling camp. Her predecessor Abhisit Vejjajiva also topped the list of popular politicians on the opposition camp with 74.9 percent of those polled voted for him, far ahead of Mr Chuwit Kamolvisit, the outspoken opposition politician, who received 16.7 percent.
About 79 percent of those surveyed rated corruption and collusion to reap benefits into politician and state officials own pockets as the most disgusting behaviour.
Regarding the most desirable traits among politicians and state officials that people wish to see in the New Year 2012, 70.4 percent of those polled agreed that honesty and integrity come first.
Among top five wish list of Thais in 2012, the majority of respondents or 82.9 per cent wished the country to be peaceful and for Thais to always be helpful to each other. Next, 73.5 percent hoped the Yingluck administration would honour election pledges by implementing Bt300 daily minimum wage, providing a start-up salary of Bt15,000 for new graduates and introducing a credit card for farmer.
However, a deepening rift among Thais is the most cause for concern, as stated by 80.7 percent of those polled. Some 71 percent were concerned about rising consumer prices and inflation. 68.3 percent were concerned that natural disasters such as flooding and earthquake might strike. 65.9 and 63.3 percent worried about crimes, drug problem and corruption, respectively.
