Duangrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Democrat Party, reflects the fears of southern residents about heavy rainfall and urges the government to disclose its response plan instead of waiting for disasters to occur before learning lessons. Meanwhile, Ploytale, Deputy Government Spokesperson, retorts by accusing critics of feigning ignorance or seeking publicity and tells them to turn on the TV and watch the news.
On 24 Oct 2026, Ms. Duangrit Bua-kaew, Deputy Spokesperson of the Democrat Party, held a press conference addressing concerns among southern residents regarding the monsoon and heavy rains that could lead to recurring flooding and waterlogging. She revealed that during her visits to southern communities, she heard firsthand the distress and anxiety of locals living in constant fear of flooding, uncertain when water might invade their homes. She emphasized that flooding in the south is a recurring problem that has yet to receive sustainable and serious solutions from the government.
To prevent loss and mitigate impacts on lives and property, the Democrat Party calls on the government to urgently reveal and implement a disaster response plan for southern Thailand starting immediately, focusing on three main areas: 1. A clear response plan with systematic monitoring, warning, and water management at risk points; 2. A ready evacuation plan including preparedness of shelters, personnel, and rescue equipment for emergencies; 3. Rapid relief mechanisms with timely damage assessment and compensation payments to victims.
Ms. Duangrit stressed that the government must be prepared before disasters strike and prioritize the people’s safety, rather than waiting for losses before reviewing lessons learned. She expressed hope that the government would demonstrate genuine commitment to addressing the recurring flooding problem for the real benefit of the public.
“We do not want to call ministers to explain again. We do not want to review lessons together with the government anymore. Flooding is a recurring issue. We hope the government will fix this problem, and we do not want to have to 'open the second rat talisman' in parliament again,” Ms. Duangrit said.
Ploytale counters Duangrit, accusing her of feigning ignorance or seeking publicity by spreading confusing news.
Ms. Ploytale Lakshamisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, responded to Ms. Duangrit’s expression of concern over flooding in the south and her call for urgent disclosure and implementation of a disaster response plan covering three main areas.
Ms. Ploytale stated that the government has been working proactively, preparing comprehensively for flooding. Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul assigned Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn as chair of the committee on flood and drought prevention and mitigation in the south, giving clear policy directives that all provinces have concretely implemented.
Regarding the urgent disaster response plan in three main areas demanded by the Deputy Spokesperson of the Democrat Party, the government has never withheld information. It has publicly announced clear and phased plans before and after incidents, including emergency response, evacuation, and relief measures under the National Disaster Insurance program, providing more comprehensive care for flood victims.
Ms. Ploytale questioned the Deputy Spokesperson of the Democrat Party, asking if she is feigning ignorance or seeking publicity to create confusion among residents. If biased and not following government work, she should watch TV or read news from various agencies and not speak of more government efforts than the Democrat Party’s spokesperson claims. She advised against wasting time creating political issues and suggested focusing on helping communities instead to gain popularity.
“The government urges residents not to worry. It has mobilized all sectors—including government agencies, the military, and local administrative organizations—to coordinate the response plan for heavy to very heavy rains in the south from 23-26 Oct 2026. All units are stationed in risk areas, ready to assist residents 24/7. Residents, especially in foothill, waterway, and lowland areas, should closely follow official information, obey officials’ advice, prepare to move belongings to higher ground, and beware of electrical hazards and strong coastal winds and waves. Those affected or needing help can report via the emergency hotline 1784 or the “Phonphai” app anytime,” Ms. Ploytale emphasized.