Premiers past and present offer Songkran wishes

Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, speaking on behalf of the government, extended his good wishes to all Thais living in the country as well as those overseas on the occasion of the traditional Thai New Year.

“I ask my compatriots to help turn this Songkran Festival into a time of celebration and promotion of love and unity among all groups. We should help ensure that our society is truly happy,” Prayut said in his statement published on the Government House website (www.thaigov.go.th).

The prime minister also said he wished all Thais would be happy, prosperous and safe from illness or accident.

“We should come together to make Thailand a society of love and unity so our country is peaceful forever. Happy Thai New Year!”

Former prime minister Chuan Leekpai also extended his good wishes to all Thais yesterday.

“I wish all Thais will be happy and prosperous, and also adhere to the principles of democracy. Our country will be happy and peaceful,” Chuan said in his home town of Trang.

Former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra also extended her good wishes.

“On this occasion of Songkran, the Thai New Year, I would like to give blessings for all my Thai brothers and sisters to be lucky, happy, prosperous, strong and healthy both physically and mentally throughout the year,” she said in a Facebook message.

Former deputy prime minister Suthep Thaugsuban, who has been ordained as a Buddhist monk, also offered good wishes to his fellow Thais. In a post on Facebook, Phra Suthep said: “I call on the powers of the Triple Gems to give you blessings. I wish you happiness, prosperity, success and health.” 

Former prime minister Banharn Silapa-archa also called on all Thais to be united and to love one another in the years ahead. 

“I wish you all happiness this Songkran,” he said at a function in his home province of Suphan Buri.

Many politicians and local officials and residents had gathered at the Bueng Chawak Auditorium yesterday to join a water-pouring ceremony for Banharn. The former PM called on people to support Prayut’s government so they can accomplish the goal of retaining peace in the country and to prepare for the next elections. 

Meanwhile, a public opinion survey has found strong support for the government’s efforts to tackle the country’s problems. The respondents also called on the government to adhere to the principles of justice and transparency.

The survey, on the topic “What do Thai families think of General Prayut’s government?” was conducted by Suan Dusit Rajabhat University on 1,278 people between April 6 and 12. The poll found that 81 per cent of the respondents believed General Prayut’s administration was swiftly addressing the country’s problems, and 79.5 per cent said peace and order and had been successfully restored to the country.