Bangkok: "Thanathorn" is expressing concerns about the upcoming election for the provincial administrative organization president scheduled for Saturday. While not worried about the government's distribution of 10,000 baht to the elderly just before the election, which could potentially give Pheu Thai an advantage, he is urging businesses to permit employees to vote by closing in the morning or afternoon. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of the Progressive Movement, highlighted the importance of the campaign for the provincial administrative organization (PAO) president. As a campaign assistant for the Prachachon Party, he recently returned from the South, where the party has actively fielded candidates in 17 provinces, including Songkhla, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Surat Thani. He emphasized the positive response from the public in these regions and the significance of winning the elections to showcase the party's capability in provincial budget management, which he belie ves will enhance public services and improve quality of life. Addressing criticisms regarding the discussion of national policies by campaign assistants despite budget constraints, Thanathorn acknowledged that the connection between national and provincial policies cannot be entirely separated. For the Prachachon Party, decentralization and the election of provincial governors are key agendas. The party's approach differs from Pheu Thai's, as they propose simultaneous elections for governors across all provinces instead of a phased approach. The party's candidates are committed to this policy and will advocate for it if elected. Responding to opinions on the readiness of provinces for governor elections, particularly those with higher income levels like Chonburi and Phuket, Thanathorn dismissed the notion that income is a determining factor. He referenced ongoing efforts in Chiang Mai to push for self-governance through the Chiang Mai Metropolis Act, previously stalled in parliament. Thanathorn downplayed concerns about the potential influence of the government's financial aid to the elderly on the election outcome, stating that the decision lies with the people. His main concern is the shift of election day from Sunday to Saturday, a day when many Thai businesses remain operational. He criticized the Election Commission's decision and urged businesses, including the Federation of Thai Industries and the Board of Trade of Thailand, to give their employees the opportunity to vote by allowing time off. When asked if the Thai Summit Group, a company he previously led, would observe a Saturday closure for the election, Thanathorn replied that he has not been involved with the company for several years and is unaware of their plans.