Chiang mai: Yotchanan took to the stage at Maejo University, expressing confidence in winning a parliamentary seat in Chiang Mai and retaining his incumbent constituency in Northern Thailand. He emphasized his dedication to addressing the needs of the northern populace. Villagers showed their support by presenting him with garlands of longan fruit and northern Thai sausage.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, the Pheu Thai Party's prime ministerial candidate, was joined by party leaders to campaign for Mr. Panu Charoensuk and Ms. Atchararat Nanthasen, candidates for Member of Parliament in Chiang Mai Constituencies 4 and 5, respectively. The event featured supporters offering Mr. Yotsanan garlands crafted from northern Thai sausage, rice noodles, sticky rice in bamboo, and flowers. He was also gifted hats embroidered with the number 9 and garlands of longan fruit bearing the same number. An elderly local demonstrated affection by kissing Mr. Yotsanan's hand.
In his address, Mr. Yotsanan articulated a desire for Chiang Mai to have a representative as Thailand's 33rd Prime Minister and for the Pheu Thai Party to secure victories in all 10 constituencies. He highlighted the party's extensive experience and commitment to initiatives like the 30-baht universal healthcare policy, emphasizing that the Pheu Thai Party prioritizes the people's welfare.
Mr. Yotsanan criticized attempts by various parties to foster division, urging a focus on enhancing quality of life. He underscored the Pheu Thai Party's strategies to tackle systemic debt, elevate longan prices, process agricultural products, and boost tourism.
Additionally, Mr. Yotsanan stressed the necessity of combating drug trafficking, proposing the closure of all border checkpoints and the construction of comprehensive fencing to halt drug entry into Thailand, advocating for a thorough crackdown.
In a subsequent interview about his campaign efforts in Chiang Mai, Mr. Yotsanan expressed confidence, citing robust local campaigning efforts. He indicated plans to extend the campaign to Chiang Rai province.
Regarding the party's regional standing, Mr. Yotsanan reaffirmed his belief in the people's decision-making power, reiterating the Pheu Thai Party's longstanding commitment to advocating for the northern region's rights and welfare.