Bang kapi: Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, expressed gratitude to supporters as he rode a parade float through Bang Kapi district, thanking citizens for their votes. As the float moved through various locations, well-wishers presented him with flowers and cheered.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong later addressed the media regarding the progress of the parliamentary election results, highlighting complaints about irregularities in the vote counting process across several areas. He emphasized that the party is vigilantly monitoring these issues, including unofficial results and feedback from candidates.
The People's Party, based on coordination with its candidates, estimates that it will secure around 88 constituency seats and more than 30 party-list seats, pending official confirmation. Reports of irregularities have surfaced, with Mr. Nattapong stressing the party's commitment to safeguarding voter rights. In Lampang province, for instance, over 7,000 ballots were invalidated despite a vote difference of only about 2,000, prompting the party to seek a recount.
In Khon Kaen province, Constituency 3, a similar situation arose with a vote difference of approximately 100 amidst numerous invalid ballots. Moreover, in Pathum Thani province, the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority (MWA) closed a polling room during vote counting, raising concerns about transparency despite minimal impact on results.
To address these issues, Mr. Nattapong has tasked Mr. Thira Suthiwarangkoon, the party's legal advisor, with investigating all cases. The party also plans to engage with the public for tips and support complaint channels through civil society organizations to ensure a fair election process.
Mr. Nattapong encouraged citizens to remain engaged in politics, despite potential disappointment with election outcomes, and assured them of the People's Party's dedication to advancing critical national agendas. He reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party, having secured first place, should lead government formation, and the People's Party will abstain from joining the government while Bhumjaithai remains in the lead.