Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party announced the introduction of 22 new MP candidates across 12 provinces, expressing confidence in exceeding their target of securing over 200 seats in the upcoming elections. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the Election Director, emphasized that switching parties is not customary and criticized the use of financial incentives to sway MPs, asserting that such tactics would lead to failure. A notable candidate from Sisaket Province pledged to combat the "cobra" phenomenon in the elections.
According to Thai News Agency, the introduction was led by prominent figures including Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Mr. Chusak Sirinil, Deputy Leader of the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Mr. Prasert Chantaruangthong, Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, core leaders of the party, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Secretary-General, and Mr. Wisut Chainarun, Chairman of the party's MPs. The leaders presented these candidates as part of their strategy to surpass the 200-seat goal, having already introduced 183 candidates previously.
Mr. Suriya expressed confidence in the reception of this new batch of candidates, stressing the importance of grassroots efforts to communicate the party's policies to constituents across the 12 provinces. He highlighted that effective communication would showcase how the party can meet the needs of the people.
Discussing the issue of party switching, Mr. Suriya noted that although it is perceived as a norm during elections, it remains an anomaly for Pheu Thai. He recounted past instances where poor party sentiment led to such switches, but this time, monetary persuasion seemed to play a role. He emphasized that voters expressed disapproval of such actions and expressed hope that loyal MPs would succeed while those who switched might face defeat.
The newly introduced candidates include figures such as Thanarat Chongsuthanamani from Chiang Rai, Chainarong Phuphisit from Lamphun, and Piyathida Butkal from Mukdahan, among others. The candidates were ceremoniously presented with red jackets and introduced themselves to the media.
In Sisaket Province, Mr. Manop Charatdamrongnit declared his candidacy, emphasizing his dedication to representing the people and fighting against the "cobra" influence, historically significant to the region. He pledged to be the last line of defense for the Pheu Thai Party in this electoral battle.
In Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Ms. Patcharawan Pinyo was introduced as a candidate, bringing experience from her previous role in the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Council. She replaces Mr. Koson Pattama, who has moved to the Bhumjaithai Party.