Thais' future depends on us, Abhisit tells party

Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said the Democrats must work harder on the party's political strategies; public relations; monitoring and following up on policies; and formulating alternative policies.

Deputy leaders Apirak Kosayodhin, Chuti Krairiksh, Korn Chatikavanij and opposition chief whip Jurin Laksanawisit, respectively, were put in charge of these tasks.

The setting up of a shadow cabinet to follow the government's work would be discussed on Tuesday, Abhisit said.

Speaking after the two-day seminar in Phitsanulok, Abhisit said the Democrats must aim for fair and steady economic growth while ensuring that people receive good welfare, life security and political rights according to democracy.

The government's performance in the first month pointed to problems in the future, especially its attempt to divide people and assume all the power for itself, Abhisit said.

The Democrat Party has to collaboration more closely with civic networks representing various groups, Abhisit said. Although it has not done well in communicating with people, it would not found its own television station, as this is legally prohibited. Instead, it would make use of new media and other channels to reach out to people, he said.

"Deputy party leaders and those who communicate with local people must provide monthly reports, in addition to the examination by the evaluation committee," he said.

After the seminar, Abhisit and the MPs paid homage to Phra Buddha Chinaraj, the famous sacred Buddha image of the province. The abbot of the Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat Temple, where the Buddha image is housed, suggested to Abhisit possible solution's to the flooding problems in Phitsanulok and nearby provinces. He told Abhisit to "be bold" in his administration if he gets the chance to become the prime minister again.