A majority of people are becoming increasingly dismayed by the ongoing tussle over the formation of a new government, according to an opinion survey by Suan Dusit Rajabhat University, or Suan Dusit Poll.
The poll was conducted from May 28-June 1 on 1,137 people across the country to gauge the opinions on the struggle to form a new government more than two months after the March 24 election.
A majority -- 67.45% -- of respondents believed the government formation has been delayed because the key parties have been unable to reach a settlement over cabinet seats; 28,27% thought internal rifts and indecision by party leaders is the problem; and 19.08% believed political parties had other problems.
Asked how much the delay has turned them off politics, a large majority -- 76.29% -- said it has become increasingly harmful, causing political instability and affecting the people's livelihood; 19.45% said their level of annoyance is about the same as before with a settlement far from being reached; and 4.26% said they have become less annoyed, because the arguments have caused people to become more interested in politics.
Asked what they want major political parties involved in the formation of a government to do, 58.43% of respondents wanted them to concentrate on helping the country and the people; 39.29% said they should respect the law, be democratic and listen to the voice of the people; and 26.24% said they should try to set up a government as soon as possible.
Regarding mid-sized parties like Bhumjaithai, Democrat and Future Forward, 47.75% said they should keep their campaign promises; 30.81% want them to be straightforward and respect the law; and 25.23% want them to uphold their political ideologies.
As for small parties, 53.42% wanted them to do the best they can to make concrete achievements; 34.70% want them to avoid causing disturbances and exchanging verbal attacks; and 18.72% want them to avoid becoming political tools of any party.
Asked to make suggestions for how parties could expedite the formation of a government, 43.73% said they should comply with international norms and respect the voice of the majority; 40.31% said they should lower their demands; and 31.77% said they should be less confrontational and avoid bickering.