BANGKOK, THAILAND – Corruption, high living costs and online fraud topped public concerns in a recent online poll on Thailand’s next government.
Corruption emerges as dominant concern
An online survey by Thairath Online running from 25 to 28 December 2568 drew almost 7,200 participants and asked what should disappear from politics. Corruption emerged as the clear frontrunner, with around 59.03 percent of respondents saying it should be removed first. Coups and extra-parliamentary power followed with 17.26 percent, while the breaking of political promises ranked third with 15.19 percent.
According to the editorial team, these figures indicated that many people no longer accepted classic corruption cases, attacks on democratic processes or broken promises by politicians. The summary noted that the population placed increasing value on the “dignity of democracy” and the “practical usefulness of politicians”.
Online fraud seen as national threat
Scammers and online fraud ranked fourth in the initial question, with 8.52 percent of the vote. In a separate question on urgent tasks for the new government, however, this issue moved sharply into focus. Asked about top priorities, 31.94 percent named reducing living costs, such as electricity, fuel and train or subway tickets, while 30.45 percent called for a determined crackdown on scammers.
Other measures trailed behind: drug suppression received 13.33 percent, wage increases 12.15 percent and direct cash transfers 12.13 percent. The editorial staff interpreted this as evidence that online crime was now seen by many as a nationwide threat, perceived as almost as burdensome as economic problems.
Mixed but cautious expectations for economy
On the question of economic development under a new government, the answers were mixed but mostly cautious. A share of 48.97 percent expected little significant change in the overall situation. By contrast, 42.07 percent believed the economic situation would certainly improve, while only 8.96 percent feared a deterioration.
Who took part in the survey?
Background data showed that most participants came from the middle to older generations. The 46–59 age group accounted for 36.78 percent, while 28.69 percent were 60 years and older. Around 43.92 percent of respondents lived in the greater Bangkok area, including the capital and neighbouring provinces, a centre of administration, the economy and politics.
Clear message to incoming government
In its conclusion, the Thairath Online editorial team saw the results as a clear warning signal to the next administration. Citizens were said to expect not only better economic indicators but also “reliable politicians” and a “democratic system”. Many participants appeared to link three central expectations to the new government: consistent anti-corruption efforts, protection of democratic order without coups or extra-parliamentary interference, and rapid relief from high living costs alongside tougher action against online fraudsters.
“This survey is more than a snapshot of public mood – it is a reckoning. People are demanding not just lower prices, but respect, honesty and reliable democracy.”
said Thairath Online, editorial team.
“When corruption, coups and broken promises are rejected almost equally strongly, it shows a political maturity that many decision-makers underestimate.”
said Thairath Online, editorial team.
“The question is not what the new government should do – but whether it has the courage to finally listen.”
said Thairath Online, editorial team.