Bang yai: The Prime Minister, alongside Supajee and Supamas, launched the "Thai Helps Thai" campaign, aimed at reducing the cost of living by selling affordable goods. The event took place at Bang Yai Market, where they were greeted by MPs from the Orange Party, known for their support and assistance with shopping carts. During the event, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Minister of Interior, engaged in extensive shopping, purchasing budget-friendly items. An elderly woman humorously questioned Supajee about her wealth, expressing her frustration and requesting some financial relief.
According to Thai News Agency, the campaign's commencement at Bang Yai City Market in Nonthaburi Province marked the beginning of a nationwide effort to reduce living costs by offering affordable goods across all 710 districts. The sales will occur at district offices and modern trade outlets like Lotus's, Big C, and Makro every Friday throughout May. Welcomed by Nonthaburi MP Suthat Meesiri of the People's Party, the Prime Minister emphasized his desire to be seen as a fellow citizen rather than an opposition figure.
Upon arrival, Mr. Anutin immediately approached Ms. Supajee to discuss a recent interview controversy, promising to send her the video. Following this, he paid respects at King Taksin the Great's shrine at Bang Yai Palace. The Prime Minister then visited a stall selling affordable goods under the "Thai Helps Thai" initiative, purchasing various items such as rice, sauces, toilet paper, cooking oil, and more. He also bought fruits like melons, durian, and mango sticky rice to distribute to attendees. A vendor presented him with an auspicious plant, "Suksomjai Pong," which he intended to place in his office. Additionally, he purchased fish believed to bring wealth to keep at his home.
During a visit to booths in four provinces-Chiang Mai, Songkhla, Trat, and Sisaket-the Prime Minister encouraged vendors to maintain serious sales efforts beyond the presence of deputy governors, ensuring public access to goods. He assured that shortages could be reported to the Ministry of Commerce.
Mr. Anutin later highlighted the collaboration between the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Interior to offer goods at lower prices than the general market. This initiative aims to cover over 800 districts and reach more than 800 people, with mobile vendors bringing affordable goods to communities. The goal is to reduce expenses by providing daily necessities at lower prices while maintaining quality.
The Minister of Commerce confirmed that the product quality remains consistent, emphasizing that these goods do not require branding or marketing but are usable despite reduced production costs. Reporters noted Ms. Supajee's interaction with market-goers, including a vendor who humorously questioned her about wealth and sought relief from economic hardships. Ms. Supajee continued to engage with the crowd, taking photos with them.