At 10:30 AM on December 2, Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, an MP from the People’s Party (PPC), addressed concerns over Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s handling of the ongoing floods in southern Thailand. Responding to criticisms of the government’s slow response, Nattapong emphasized the importance of effective disaster management, particularly with heavy rainfall expected to return in the next two to three days.
While floodwaters have receded in some areas and key roads have reopened, Nattapong stressed the need for swift deployment of resources, including life vests, dry food supplies, and medical assistance, especially in the three southern border provinces. Vulnerable groups, such as bedridden patients reliant on life-support equipment, face significant risks due to power outages. He called for expedited evacuations and greater utilization of government data to manage the crisis effectively.
When asked about the Prime Minister's planned visit to the affected areas on December 6, Nattapong suggested that systematic coordination and delegating tasks to capable representatives are more critical than physical presence. "The Prime Minister doesn’t need to be everywhere but must ensure that designated officials can manage the situation effectively," he said.
Nattapong also warned of worsening conditions in the coming days, with rising rainfall coinciding with higher sea levels, which could hinder water drainage. He urged the government to act immediately by deploying necessary tools and equipment to prevent further deterioration of the situation. "If there’s no proactive preparation, the impact on citizens could escalate without adequate assistance," he concluded.