Bangkok: The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) is urging Thai citizens to elect parties that are steadfast in their stance against corruption.
According to Thai News Agency, a recent survey highlights the pervasive issue of corruption, with 97% of business leaders and 72% of the public acknowledging its severity. The JSCCIB is pressing for voters to back parties committed to reducing corruption-related costs and boosting competitiveness.
Dr. Poj Aramwattananon, who chairs both the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Zero Corruption Working Group, emphasized that corruption imposes significant hidden costs on businesses, undermining competitiveness. He noted that political parties often make anti-corruption pledges during campaigns but fail to follow through. Dr. Poj expressed appreciation for parties that have adopted anti-corruption stances in their platforms and have highlighted the issue in debates and media.
The Joint Committee of Three Private Sector Institutions (JCC) has maintained its support for anti-corruption initiatives, ensuring these efforts extend beyond election periods. The JCC is also set to unveil survey results focusing on the persistence of bribery in business permit processes, underlining the need for ongoing governmental action against corruption.
The JSCCIB is actively campaigning nationwide, underscoring the significance of anti-corruption in electoral decisions. With the upcoming February 8th election, the public is encouraged to vote for parties with robust anti-corruption policies while shunning those involved in corrupt practices. This initiative aims to elevate political standards, foster transparency, and enhance economic competitiveness across sectors.