Suang Denies Recruiting Chadchart as Pheu Thai’s Prime Ministerial Candidate

Bangkok: Suang, the Minister of Tourism and Sports and Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, has dismissed rumors regarding the recruitment of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt as the party's prime ministerial candidate. The clarification was made during a recent visit to the party's headquarters, where Suang emphasized the ongoing search for three suitable candidates, marking this endeavor as a significant opportunity. According to Thai News Agency, Suang stressed that the readiness to develop an election strategy is crucial, with the potential dissolution of Parliament anticipated within the next four months. He reaffirmed the party's confidence that the election will occur within the next five to six months, regardless of any unforeseen developments. He also clarified that Chadchart Sittipunt has expressed no interest in major political roles, preferring instead to focus on his responsibilities in Bangkok. The party is actively seeking a prime ministerial candidate to continue serving the nation, with Suang urging the public not to solely focus on the Shinawatra family as potential contenders. Despite speculation that the Shinawatra family has exhausted its candidates, he noted that Paethongtarn Shinawatra remains a qualified MP, depending on her political decisions. He highlighted that the party's previous prime ministerial candidate, Paethongtarn, was from the Shinawatra family, although Settha Thavisin ultimately assumed the role after the government was formed. The Pheu Thai Party's selection process for all 400 constituencies is currently underway, with regional working groups established to oversee candidate selection. The party plans to retain its existing candidates while seeking new ones to enhance its electoral strategy. Suang acknowledged the challenges faced by former Prime Ministers Settha and Paethongtarn, as well as the coalition government's less-than-expected results, yet affirmed the party's commitment to national service. Suang also addressed rumors concerning former Prime Ministe r Thaksin Shinawatra's departure from the party, emphasizing his status as a spiritual leader and his return to Thailand to support the nation and his family. Thaksin's commitment to the party remains strong, despite his 17-year absence from the country. Suang confirmed that Paethongtarn Shinawatra would continue to lead the party, even if she cannot pursue ministerial or prime ministerial positions in the future. In terms of election strategy, Suang expressed confidence in the party's ability to recover its popularity by focusing on understanding the public's needs. He noted that the Pheu Thai Party's coalition government, comprising multiple political parties and individuals, presents unique challenges. However, he highlighted Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai's efforts in addressing pressing issues such as drug suppression and public well-being. Suang reaffirmed the party's commitment to contesting elections in every district, aiming to rekindle public support for the Pheu Thai Party. He remains optimistic about increasing the number of MPs in the next election, emphasizing a focus on fundamental strategies for electoral success.