Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and prime ministerial candidate, recently campaigned at a market in front of Wat Wachiratham Sathit in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok. Accompanied by fellow prime ministerial candidate Ms. Kardee Leowpairoj and Mr. Sakoltee Phatthiyakul, deputy party leader in charge of Bangkok, Abhisit supported Ms. Veer Srivarathanabool, candidate for Member of Parliament in Bangkok Constituency 23, number 17.
According to Thai News Agency, the campaign event in the Phra Khanong and Bang Na districts was marked by a lively atmosphere as merchants and the public expressed their support for Abhisit. Many offered flowers and requested photos, with some expressing their long-standing admiration for him. Abhisit expressed gratitude for the positive feedback and highlighted the opportunity to continue working on important issues with the help of former MPs and local councilors.
Abhisit discussed public concerns about the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s regulations on animal control, acknowledging the challenge they present despite a one-year postponement. He emphasized the importance of addressing the stray animal issue, which is expected to be revisited during the upcoming Bangkok gubernatorial election. Additionally, the public highlighted economic hardships and expressed appreciation for the Democrat Party’s initiatives, including compensation for village health volunteers and allowances for the elderly.
Touching on concerns about vote buying, Abhisit addressed reports of irregularities and urged the Election Commission (EC) to be more proactive in tackling the issue. He criticized past practices of post-election arrests and called for stricter enforcement to prevent vote buying, especially concerning the misuse of cameras in polling booths.
Abhisit also commented on political dynamics, noting that public support is crucial in overcoming political maneuvering. He emphasized the importance of honest governance and the detrimental effects of money-driven politics. Lastly, Abhisit expressed the Democrat Party’s intention to introduce young and new candidates across Bangkok, believing they will play a vital role in the city’s future.