Democrats introduce 'New Dem'

Democrats introduce 'New Dem'

New Dem, the young generation of Democrat Party members, pose for a photo after being introduced on Tuesday. (Photo by Tawatchai Kemgumnerd)
New Dem, the young generation of Democrat Party members, pose for a photo after being introduced on Tuesday. (Photo by Tawatchai Kemgumnerd)

The Democrat Party has introduced "New Dem", a group of 21 young party members led by Parit Wacharasindhu, a nephew of the party leader.

At the event on Tuesday, the young people talked about the policies they want the 72-year-old party to adopt, ranging from a 100% volunteer military force and further marijuana legalisation.

"New Dem don't want to judge whether the status quo is right or wrong. We just want everyone to start questioning existing values. I want us to be the bridge of the new generation inside and outside the party," said Mr Parit, a son of party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva's sister.

"We believe [solving] several of the country's problems need the input from the new generation, particularly on technology and social diversity."

Mr Parit added New Dem were not like the new blood of other parties. "You don't have to be related to politicians to join us and we're ready to listen to and work with all generations...Our group wants to do constructive, not divisive, political work."

Mr Parit, who recently volunteered to serve the army for six months, went on to talk about his dream of replacing military draft with a 100% volunteer system.

Dr Kanawat Chantaralawan, another New Dem member, proposed legalising marijuana trade for pain relief since it has become an economic plant in high demand. He also wants to see the government allow people to harvest and extract cannabis oil while reducing its role to maintaining quality and safety standards.

Surabot Leekpai, son of Democrat chief adviser and former leader Chuan Leekpai, wants to promote esports, which generate revenue of 10 billion baht and create new careers such as e-sportsmen, game casters and esports commentators.

Other ideas from New Dem are legalising ride-sharing services by bringing them into the system and making sure conventional taxis and motorcycles are not taken advantage of.

Other ideas include liberalising the production of craft beer and local liquor and allowing same-sex marriages.

Democrat leader Abhisit said these ideas would be considered when the party drafted its policies.

"From now, we'll pair each New Dem with a former MP so they can work together and share views," the former prime minister said.

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