Poor government performance was one of the reasons cited by the opposition Democrat party for launching the censure debate.
PM Samak and Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama were strongly criticised for allegedly failing to protect Thailand's interests by supporting Cambodia's bid to list Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site. The government was also attacked for failing to deal with the high price of oil and its impact on the economy.
PM Samak himself admitted during the debate that the Commerce Ministry had failed to address problems related to the high price of rice. Without political and economic stability, it is hard for Thailand to win foreign investors' confidence. Even the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has given the government a C grade for its handling of economic issues over the past four months. It recommended that all cabinet ministers cooperate more closely to help Thailand ride out the economic storm.
For his part, PM Samak should use the censure debate as an excuse to overhaul his cabinet. Only competent people must be appointed to ministerial positions. We hope the prime minister will exercise his courage without fear or favour. He cannot afford to do nothing after all the accusations that have been laid against him and seven of his cabinet ministers.
People have listened to the debate, which was broadcast live on state television and radio. Now they expect the prime minister to do something.
Of course, we are not calling for the government's removal. People are not ready for a fresh general election. They just want the government to work harder and with greater efficiency.
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