Pheu Thai ‘special govt’ not popular

Most people disagree with Pheu Thai’s decision to form a government with its rivals regardless of the political circumstances, according to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration.

Also known as the Nida poll, the survey was conducted over the telephone between Aug 15-17. In total, 1,310 people aged 18 and over, from various backgrounds, were asked about Pheu Thai’s effort to form a “special government” with the Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation (UTN) parties.

Out of the 1,310 people surveyed, almost 48% said they disagreed with the party’s push, while only 19.5% said they strongly agree with the move. About 17% said they moderately disagree, while about 15% said they moderately agree. About 1% chose not to answer.

When asked which Pheu Thai candidate is most suited to be the next prime minister, 38.6% favoured Paetongtarn “Ung-ing” Shinawatra; 36.5% picked Srettha Thavisin; 8.4% chose Chaikasem Nitisiri; while 16.3% did not answer.

Asked to comment on relations between the Pheu Thai and Move Forward parties now, 49.8% said they are now rivals; 27.3% said they are just acquaintances; 20.9% said they are still allies; and 1.83% did not answer.