“STR Network” Storms Government House, Urge End to MOU 43–44 to Cut Living Costs

Today (April 21, 2026), at 9:30 a.m. at Government House, the Student and People Network for Thailand’s Reform (STR), along with the State Enterprise Workers' Relations Confederation (SERC), the Thai Labour Solidarity Confederation (TLSC), and the "Religion, Monarchy, Nation, Land" mass group, submitted a list of demands under the "People's Agenda" regarding government policy. The demands included the following:

1.The government, led by the Prime Minister, should urgently reorganize the entire energy sector with national security in mind, rather than focusing solely on profit-seeking.

2..The Thailand-Cambodia agreements, MOU 43 and MOU 44, must be immediately cancelled.

3.A wage structure overhaul is urgently needed to ensure adequate pay for a fair standard of living, covering all professions.

4.Immediately overhaul the state-owned enterprise system in public utilities—such as electricity, water, and railways—to increase efficiency, but without privatization in the same manner as PTT.

5.Urgently reform the justice system to ensure the rule of law, justice, and equality for all citizens.

Representatives of STR expressed that once the government delivers its policy statement, the network will submit a letter to guide policy management, specifically regarding the reform of Thailand's energy industry to adjust the cost of living for workers. As the cost of living has risen, the government should rapidly adjust the framework accordingly.

Furthermore, they suggested that if Thaksin Shinawatra is released from prison on May 11, 2026, it may influence the Pheu Thai Party and the Bhumjaithai Party to pass an amnesty bill. They noted that previously, some policies implemented by the Pheu Thai-led government were never presented to Parliament. Additionally, as this is a coalition government between the Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai parties, they expressed concerns regarding potential policy inconsistencies.

Regarding the government's emergency loan decree, they claimed it places the full burden of responsibility on the people. The administration must clarify to the public the necessity of accelerating such measures.

The Thai Labour Solidarity Confederation noted that Thai workers suffer from high living costs while wages have not improved, resulting in insufficient income for daily life. Consequently, the government must address this issue for workers nationwide, as recent policy declarations remain unclear on how to tackle high living expenses.

Ms. Rachada Dhnadirek, the Prime Minister's Office spokesperson, accepted the petition and thanked the STR and its network for representing the people and communicating their concerns to the government. She affirmed that the administration is aware of all complaints filed through various channels and will provide updates on matters currently under consideration.

Regarding MOU 44, she stated the government has a clear plan of action. Measures to ease the burden on the public and workers, particularly by reducing expenses, will be implemented. This includes the concept of establishing an Entertainment Complex to generate national revenue and promote tourism, which she clarified does not focus on casinos. Simultaneously, security concerns must be addressed in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, local communities, and international relations.

Finally, she indicated that the administration recognizes the concerns of all sectors and is eager to accelerate problem resolution to alleviate the people's hardships. If any action cannot be taken immediately, the reasons will be explicitly stated. The government remains dedicated to collaborating with civil society networks, which serve as a vital bridge for the voices of the people.

Photo : Punyaphon Rakcharoen