Transport Union Blasts Government Over Fuel Prices, Threatens Strike

The transport union president criticizes the government's response to rising fuel prices, calling it "weak" and accusing them of blaming others instead of taking responsibility.

A large caravan of over 1,000 trucks protested in Chonburi, demanding action on high fuel prices and citing issues with old stock being sold at inflated prices.

The transport sector warns of a nationwide strike if their demands are not met, highlighting the potential economic impact.

The union president alleges that "shadowy figures" and energy tycoons are profiting from the crisis, creating artificial shortages.

The union president recalls similar crises in 1983 and 2008, criticizing the government for shifting blame to the transport sector.

Footage shows long queues at petrol stations and signs indicating fuel shortages, illustrating the public's distress.

Trucks participating in the protest displayed banners with critical messages directed at the government and fuel companies.

The union president expresses disappointment with the government's response and the perceived lack of action on their previous eight demands.

The union claims the current fuel shortage is artificial, designed to cause public panic and allow for exploitation.

The union questions why prices are increasing when the fuel is from older, cheaper stock, and why the Oil Fund is subsidizing it.

The union identifies refineries, oil traders, and energy conglomerates as the primary beneficiaries of the current situation.

The union suggests a chain of responsibility involving high-ranking officials, from the Prime Minister to ministers, in the alleged manipulation.

There are widespread calls to declare fuel a controlled product to regulate prices and prevent hoarding during the crisis.

The union presents four revised demands, including a price freeze, resolution of shortages, stable pricing, and traffic management at Laem Chabang port.

A key demand is to resolve the issue of diesel shortages at petrol stations, which has severely impacted the Southern region.

The union demands that the government manage fuel prices to prevent them from exceeding a set ceiling.

The union highlights the severe traffic congestion at Laem Chabang port, which increases operational costs and fuel consumption.

The union president shifts from calling the government "weak" to "lacking courage" to confront energy tycoons and political figures.

The union threatens to escalate their actions, including a complete halt of services, if their demands are not met.

The potential consequences of a nationwide strike by the 10-wheel truck sector are discussed, emphasizing the disruption to the economy.

The acting director of the Port Authority of Thailand assures that efforts are underway to alleviate traffic congestion at Laem Chabang.

Online comments reveal widespread public anger and frustration regarding the fuel crisis and the government's response.

Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn admits confusion about the fuel shortage and acknowledges his involvement in the energy business.

The deputy prime minister questions previous government assurances of sufficient fuel supply, contrasting them with the current reality.

The deputy prime minister plans to meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the crisis and identify those responsible for hoarding or lying.

The planned meeting is described as a "naked" discussion, implying a frank and open exchange to uncover the truth.

The deputy prime minister addresses the union's concern about old stock being sold at current prices, explaining the purchasing process.

The deputy prime minister explains that fuel is purchased in advance, and current prices reflect the cost of new, more expensive crude oil.

The deputy prime minister uses the term "fair to fair" to describe the pricing adjustments, suggesting it's a standard business practice.

The discrepancy between the public's perception of old stock being sold at high prices and the business logic of cost-based pricing is highlighted.

The deputy prime minister suggests that clearer communication from the government about fuel stock and future price adjustments would improve public understanding.

The deputy prime minister urges the public not to direct their anger at petrol station attendants, who are often caught in the middle.

The deputy prime minister announces plans to summon all parties involved, including petrol station operators, to investigate potential hoarding and export.

The Prime Minister returns and assures the public that the government is working to resolve the crisis and urges against premature blame.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with the Deputy Prime Minister to discuss the ongoing fuel crisis.

The Prime Minister calls for a thorough investigation involving all stakeholders in the oil trade to identify the root cause of the shortage.

The outcome of the meeting with the Prime Minister will be crucial in identifying the 'shadowy figures' and resolving the crisis.

Online comments reveal diverse public reactions, including suspicions of hoarding and concerns about the impact on essential supplies like medicine.