Bangkok: Nida sees a golden opportunity to capture the hearts of Isan people. Suwicha suggests focusing on scammers instead of nationalism. Assistant Professor Dr. Suwicha Paoa-aree, Director of the NIDA Poll, revealed on the “Share Lao Khao Det” program on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5 that a survey of 32.4% of Isan residents did not yet have a prime minister in mind. This suggests that no one has yet captured the public’s attention, presenting an opportunity for all political parties to seize before time runs out.
According to Thai News Agency, in terms of political party support in the Isan region, the Prachachon Party still commands 26%, a significant drop from its previous 47%. Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party, despite maintaining a popularity rating of 16%, will see its popularity reach 36% in 2023, a 20% drop. The Pheu Thai Party remains loyal to those aged 60 and over and farmers. The Pheu Thai Party’s current strategy is to win the hearts and minds of its MPs and large households.
For the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin Charnvirakul’s personal popularity rating stands at 19%, a 15% margin behind the party’s. Assuming the prime ministerial position gives Anutin the power to push policy agendas publicly. Bhumjaithai is facing pressure and must urgently address scammers and online gambling, as well as sensitive issues like the Thai-Cambodian border, to regain its popularity. Furthermore, Asst. Prof. Dr. Suwicha believes the Democrat Party is worth watching, with Abhisit Vejjajiva ranked fifth with 6.10%. This signals a return for the Democrat Party, with key elections in the South and Bangkok crucial to determine the party’s fate.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Suwicha pointed out that in actual elections, the public must be especially cautious, as popularity gained from polls often loses 5-6% in the actual election due to the impact of political resources. He suggested that instead of playing the scammer game, the nationalist trend should be played out by using the “hit the bull and hit the rake” strategy to indirectly attack the government, but clear evidence is required if genuine votes are desired.