Bangkok: "Chulaphan" leads the Pheu Thai team to campaign at Huai Khwang market, confident of reclaiming Bangkok. Chulaphan Amornvivat, leader of the Pheu Thai Party and the party's prime minister candidate, led a team of list-based parliamentary candidates to Huai Khwang market in Din Daeng district, Bangkok. The purpose of the visit was to support Man Sahasawat, the party's candidate for Bangkok Constituency 6, and to engage with the public on economic issues while communicating the party's economic policies.
According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere at the market was lively, with citizens and shopkeepers warmly welcoming the Pheu Thai Party delegation. Supporters lined the route to offer encouragement, present flowers, and engage in conversations with the team. The delegation interacted with shop owners, sampling local cuisine and fostering a friendly atmosphere.
The Pheu Thai Party outlined key policies during the campaign, such as the 20-baht flat fare for the BTS Skytrain, debt relief, the "Half-Price Plus" co-payment scheme, and other measures aimed at reducing the cost of living. These policies have been well-received by the public, according to Mr. Chulaphan, who noted the positive response from both residents and vendors in the area.
Chulaphan expressed confidence in the party's support base, stating that while the party has changed, it remains strong in traditionally supportive areas. He emphasized that the party did not set a target of winning 10 seats in Bangkok but aims to secure as many seats as possible, with hopes exceeding the initial target.
A significant rally is planned for this evening at Siam Paragon, where Mr. Chulaphan will present the party's principles, ideology, and strategies for securing 200 parliamentary seats. A key policy announcement is also anticipated during the event.
Nationwide, Pheu Thai's campaign has received favorable responses, particularly for Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, the party's prime ministerial candidate. The public has requested more direct interactions with Mr. Yotsanan, beyond television presentations of his policies. The party plans to focus on in-person engagements and will hold multiple rallies in various provinces, marking their most extensive campaign effort to date.
In response to the Bhumjaithai Party's strategic focus on Nakhon Ratchasima, Mr. Chulaphan reiterated the Pheu Thai Party's stronghold in the area, citing the election of 11 out of 16 MPs there. He expressed confidence in gaining more seats in the upcoming election and welcomed increased political engagement in the region. The Pheu Thai Party plans a final rally in Nakhon Ratchasima, featuring all of its prime ministerial candidates.
Despite public opinion polls indicating a lag behind other parties, Mr. Chulaphan remains optimistic, viewing the polls as motivation to intensify efforts. He highlighted the variability in poll results and emphasized the value of direct engagement with the public to gauge their sentiments.