Tells Bangkokians to forego money politics

SUPOJ WANCHAROEN

Independent candidate for governor Piraphong Thanompongpan is hoping that this election won't just be politics as usual. In fact, he's dreaming of nothing short of a revolution in the way residents view city hall.

``I'd like people to look beyond money politics. It's such a shame. I hope the gubernatorial election will forge a political revolution in which power doesn't fall into the hands of a group, a gang or a political party.''

Mr Piraphong has devised a campaign strategy that reflects this desire for a shift in the way politics is done in Bangkok. The independent candidate is running a grassroots campaign intent on learning what city residents really want from their governor. Mr Piraphong and his teams visit various communities or groups _ be they street vendors or conservation groups _ in each district and make inquiries about their needs. At the same time they keep an eye open for problems in each area. He describes this approach as a ``demand-side'' strategy as opposed to a ``supply-side'' strategy in which politicians try to sell ideas to city voters.

``We put forth our policies on various issues for the people to consider and will wait and see who likes the ideas and how the election turns out,'' he said.

Mr Piraphong, whose wife is funding her husband's campaign with five million baht, said he decided to run for governor because he feels indebted to Thailand.

``My ancestors came from China. They lived and prospered here while many countrymen are still in poverty. I feel obliged to pay back,'' he said.

To win the election, he is touting a five-point plan aimed at bringing families closer together.

His ``Close to Home'' campaign is aimed at tackling traffic woes, which waste the precious time of residents.

His ``Close to School'' proposal encourages parents to send their children to educational insititutes in the vicinity of the home.

His ``Close to Town'' plan would develop urban areas along the extended subway routes.

His ``Close to Power'' campaign encourages wider public participation in solving the city's problems.

His ``Close to Future'' proposal is aimed at ensuring that people can live adequately and earn more money.

According to Mr Piraphong, traffic, garbage, street vendors and education are his top priorities.

The candidate plans to turn thesakit or city inspectors into traffic workers to help traffic police. His ambitious idea would put at least 5,000 on the streets each day. Each would be given a 400 baht daily wage, or two million baht a day total, he said, adding he believes the expense is worth it.

``Four million people who get stuck on the road will spend less time on the road and do something more useful.

``They will save the time and use it to make money. The more they earn, the happier they are and the more they spend. The government also benefits,'' he said.

Mr Piraphong is opposed to incinerators when it comes to garbage. His plan is to raise awareness among city residents and urge them to keep the garbage at a minimum. Tax measures will be imposed on manufacturers of toxic or chemical waste; currently city hall bears the disposal costs of this toxic waste which accounts for 15% of garbage.

Mr Piraphong also plans to have street vendors registered and provide venues for them to do business. They will be safe from harassment from thesakit officials. ``They won't have to wander around. Surveillance cameras will be enough.''

Mr Piraphong, who claims to have worked in education circles for eight years after he quit politics, plans to promote study at schools run by city hall.

Mr Piraphong said he might not be able to compete with other candidates in terms of looks or charisma and campaign funding. ``But in terms of brains and experience which are most needed in solving Bangkok's problems, I can compete with anyone,'' he said.