Bangkok: "Natthapong" announces election results, expecting to win 88 constituency seats and 30 party-list seats. He noted concerns about irregularities in several areas and reiterated the opposition's stance if Bhumjaithai forms the government. He also addressed the NACC (National Anti-Corruption Commission) case and the ongoing efforts to amend the constitution.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, announced the latest updates on the parliamentary election results and revealed complaints of irregularities in the vote counting process in several areas. He stated that the party is closely monitoring the situation, including unofficial results and complaints from candidates.
Mr. Nattapong stated that, based on coordination with candidates in each constituency, the latest estimate is that the People's Party will win approximately 88 constituency seats and over 30 party-list seats. However, they are awaiting official results for confirmation. Meanwhile, the party has received reports of several irregularities, emphasizing that every vote counts and the party is prepared to fully protect the rights of eligible voters.
For example, in Lampang province, over 7,000 invalid ballots were found, even though the difference in votes was only about 2,000. The party is preparing to request a recount. Similarly, in Khon Kaen province, Constituency 3, the difference in votes was only about 100, but numerous invalid and irregular ballots were discovered.
Furthermore, there was a case in Pathum Thani province where the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority (MWA) closed the polling room during the vote counting. Although the result may not have differed significantly from the initial count, it was deemed necessary for the process to be transparent and verifiable in order to build public trust.
Mr. Nattapong stated that, as party leader, he has appointed Mr. Thira Suthiwarangkoon, the party's legal advisor, to be responsible for investigating all cases. He also announced plans to receive tips directly from the public and support complaint channels through civil society organizations to ensure the election is conducted honestly and fairly.
Mr. Nattapong also stated that he wanted to encourage all citizens, acknowledging that some might be disappointed with the election results, but urged them to have faith in the power of the people's voices and to continue participating in politics. He affirmed that the People's Party is ready to continuously push forward important agendas for the country.
Regarding his political stance after the election, Mr. Nattapong reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party, which came in first place, should lead the formation of the government first, and as long as Bhumjaithai remains the leading party, the People's Party will not join the government.
Meanwhile, Mr. Nattapong also gave an interview regarding the news surrounding the role of Mr. Sarayuth Jailak, the party's secretary-general, stating that Mr. Sarayuth had already clarified the matter to the media and was ready to fulfill the promises he had made to the party.
Mr. Nattapong stated that this is a crucial period after the election, and the party still has many tasks to manage, including preparing for the next parliamentary session, restructuring internal operations, and training newly elected MPs in various constituencies. Therefore, he requested that internal party processes proceed systematically first.
"In the past, the party secretary-general played a crucial role in coordinating and ensuring a smooth internal transition. We are confident that Mr. Sarayuth is ready to fulfill his promises," said Mr. Nattapong.
Regarding the rumors of resignation or a change in position, Mr. Nattapong stated that it was in line with what Mr. Sarayuth had previously stated in an interview, and that the decision should be made within the party. He emphasized that he would not interfere with personal decisions. He added that if a new person is selected to the position of party secretary-general, it will follow the party's procedures. He also stated that Mr. Sarayuth can contribute to the party in any role, regardless of his position.
"I respect his decision and would prefer him to clarify the matter himself. However, I still have confidence in his potential and determination," said Mr. Nattapong.
Furthermore, Mr. Nattapong assessed that the election results are influenced by several factors, including internal party management, the performance of the candidates, and the competitive strategies in each area, which the party will review in detail.
Mr. Nattapong stated that in some districts where the party did not win, the number of votes did not decrease compared to the previous election; in some areas, it even increased. This reflects that it is not solely due to the shortcomings of the candidates, but also to the competitive context and strategies of the opponents in those areas. However, the party will respect the people's decision and wait for the official 100% vote count before drawing lessons and planning adjustments to its strategies for the next election.
Mr. Nattapong also revealed that prior to the press conference, he had discussed the matter with party executives, acknowledging that while the party might be at a disadvantage overall in terms of systems and networks in some areas, it remains recognized for its progressive policies and social agendas that have been consistently promoted over the years.
The People's Party will accelerate efforts to strengthen its network at the local level, reach more people, and build closer relationships with communities in preparation for the next election.
'We accept this lesson and will work harder. We believe that if we seriously go down to the grassroots level and work closely with the people, the next election will go more smoothly,' Mr. Nattapong concluded.
Mr. Nattapong also commented on the overall election results, stating that each area had different factors and it was impossible to pinpoint a single primary cause. Some districts might have been affected by political network competition or the strategic maneuvering of rival parties, such as dividing voter bases in certain areas, while many other areas had unique local factors.
"Election victories and defeats can be attributed to various factors. We accept all circumstances, but we cannot conclude that any single reason was the decisive factor. The party is prepared to learn from all the lessons to improve and make the next election better," said Mr. Nattapong.
Regarding the circulating news about the National Anti-Corruption Commission's (NACC) indictment, Mr. Nattapong clarified that the previously disseminated information was untrue. He stated that no official case file or indictment has been issued yet, and he has consulted with the party's legal team. He cited the example of an accusation against him for using his position as an MP to bail out a suspect, which he firmly denied. He emphasized that the case file only concerns his participation in signing a proposal to amend the Criminal Code, and no other offenses. He stated that, to be fair, he faces the least risk compared to others, and therefore, if any action appears unfair, he believes there might be underlying motives.
Mr. Nattapong stated that if any legal proceedings are deemed unfair, he is ready to fight through the legal process. He also reiterated that the party has prioritized amending the constitution to ensure that independent organizations function impartially and are not used as political tools.
Mr. Nattapong also commented on the referendum results regarding constitutional amendments, stating that although the official results are not yet 100% complete, he believes the direction is toward approval. He urged the government, political parties, and senators to respect the will of the people and move forward with the drafting of a new constitution.
Regarding questions about other political parties, Mr. Nattapong stated that he could not make decisions on behalf of anyone, but urged all parties to prioritize the public interest and fulfill the promises they made to voters.
Ultimately, Mr. Nattapong acknowledged that he understood the feelings of some members of the public who might be disappointed with the political situation, but affirmed that the party had gone through a thorough process of listening to the opinions of its supporters, and that from now on, it would focus on doing its best in its own role.
"My duty as party leader is to continue working, improve politics, and push for the realization of what the people expect," said Mr. Nattapong.
After the press conference, Mr. Nattapong boarded a parade float to thank the public in Bang Kapi district. Some members of the public presented him with flowers before the float left the party headquarters to express their gratitude for the votes they received.