Civic groups form People's Assembly

The network has no leaders, but is run by a committee made up of academics, professionals, businessmen and students. 

 

Somkiat Pongpaiboon, chairman of the assembly, called PART 2013, said the first meeting of members from 77 provinces would be called on October 14.

 

The network’s mission to push for changes in five areas – politics, administration, justice and ethics, education and the economy.

 

Tul Sithisomwong, leader of the multicoloured shirts, said the root of the problems faced by the country was neglect by both bureaucrats and politicians, who do not work for the people. 

 

Transfers of permanent officials should be done like those in the military by the Defence Council. MP candidates should be subject to an asset investigation prior to running in an election.

 

Banjerd Singkaneti, dean of law at the National Institute of Development Administration and another Part committee member, read out the declaration. 

 

Throughout 80 years of democracy, the leading class had monopolised and vied for power without adhering to the rule of law, he said. Corruption had been rife. The cause of the current political crisis was a system that allows capitalists to dominate politics by using their resources and buying votes to win elections and seize state power. This had led to parliamentary dictatorship. Thais must carry about reforms to return power to the people.

 

Suriyasai Katasila, coordinator of the Green Politics group, said the Part committee would call a meeting on Sunday to draw up an action plan in light of the 40th anniversary of the October 14 student uprising.

Others on the 16-member committee are Komsan Phokong, Yanyong Serirat and Somkiat Hom-laor.