On a sun-dappled Sunday in Phitsanulok, excitement filled the air as Monchai Wiwatthanat received a bouquet from his jubilant supporters. The atmosphere was electric, a reflection of a closely-fought election that had been the talk of the town for weeks. (Photo by Shinawat Singha)
The elections for the Phitsanulok Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) chairman had all the elements of a political thriller. Much of the spotlight was on Siripan Prajak-ubon, a candidate backed by the once-influential Move Forward Party (MFP) turned People’s Party (PP), helmed by ex-member Padipat Santipada. Despite the fervor of her supporters, Siripan ended up in the second position with 104,163 votes, trailing behind Monchai Wiwatthanat, who clinched the victory with a resounding 214,519 votes. Trailing behind, Settha Jittijarurat managed only 13,759 votes, according to the initial results released on Monday.
The election saw a significant turnout, with 361,642 out of 677,410 eligible voters making their voices heard at the ballot box. This election held particular significance as it was the first one organized after the dramatic dissolution of the MFP by the Constitutional Court for breaching royal protocol. In its embers, the MPs rallied under the new banner of the People’s Party (PP).
Mr. Padipat, once a rising star in the MFP and a former deputy House speaker, had been expelled from the party to hold onto his deputy House speaker post, a strategic move to allow the MFP’s leader to take the reins as the opposition leader. Campaigning tirelessly, Padipat threw his weight behind Ms. Siripan, hoping her win could avenge the loss of his constituency MP seat from last year’s general elections. Unfortunately, his efforts fell short as the electorate decided otherwise.
The court’s ruling also imposed a 10-year ban from politics on those who served on the MFP’s board, adding another twist to this complex tale. The MFP’s leaders, undeterred, urged their followers to redirect their disenchantment from the party’s dissolution into votes for their endorsed candidate, not only in local polls but also in the upcoming general election scheduled to take place three years from now.
Taking the center stage in Monday’s post-election limelight, Mr. Monchai, who previously chaired the Phitsanulok PAO, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the voters. Acknowledging the unexpectedly low voter turnout, he vowed to continue the policies he had previously championed while serving as chairman.
Despite the loss, Ms. Siripan stood tall, reflecting on her intense 35-day campaign. While she expressed her regret over the election outcome, she remained steadfast in her commitment to bring positive changes to the province.
Taking to his Facebook account, Mr. Padipat graciously congratulated Mr. Monchai on his victory, a classy move that resonated with his supporters.
However, the election results have sparked debates among the political circles. Adisorn Piangket, a list MP of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, commented that the PAO election results served as a wake-up call to the People’s Party (PP). He emphasized that mere hype is not sufficient to secure electoral victories.
And as the dust settles in Phitsanulok, eyes are now set on the upcoming PAO election in Ratchaburi, scheduled for September 1. There, the battle lines are already being drawn, with former MFP stalwarts and PP politicians campaigning vigorously to win the hearts and votes of the people once again.
Monchai Wiwatthanat’s victory is a clear indication that people are tired of recycled political faces. Siripan’s defeat shows that the People’s Party (PP) doesn’t resonate with the masses!
I disagree. Siripan lost, but she had significant support. It’s the system that’s broken, not her appeal.
True, it’s not just about the candidates but the party strategies and political climate. Let’s not undermine her effort.
Sure, she ran a good campaign, but at the end of the day, voters chose Monchai. It speaks volumes.
It’s shocking to see how the dramatic dissolution of the MFP impacted the election. Politics in this country is like a soap opera.
Yeah, but real people’s lives are the ones at stake. This isn’t just a show.
Absolutely. This isn’t a game. These decisions affect everyone in Phitsanulok.
With over 677,410 eligible voters, the fact that only 361,642 actually voted is disappointing. Democracy functions better with higher participation.
Voter turnout is often low when people feel disconnected from the political process. The politicians need to do more to engage citizens.
Agreed. If campaigns were more inclusive and transparent, maybe more people would feel their vote truly matters.
Padipat’s support for Siripan was commendable, even if they lost. Takes guts to stand by your principles!
Principles are great, but politics is about winning too. They need better strategies next time.
Exactly! It’s a shame though. We need more politicians like Padipat who are true to their values.
Monchai’s pledge to continue previous policies is just a safe play. We need bold changes, not more of the same!
Sometimes consistency is better than radical changes. People know what they’re getting with Monchai.
Consistency sometimes means stagnation. Phitsanulok needs to evolve!
Such a high turnout shows the crucial role local elections play. Every vote counts!
Couldn’t agree more! Local governance impacts our daily lives more than we realize.
Indeed, this was our chance to change things locally, and voters showed up.
Interesting how the People’s Party thought they could ride on their past glory. Times are changing!
Yes, it’s evident that past influence can only get you so far. Fresh approaches are needed in today’s politics.
Monchai’s win is a clear rejection of the PP’s agenda. People want stability over theatrics.
Every candidate ran a vigorous campaign. It was great to see such spirited involvement from everyone!
The 10-year ban for MFP’s board members is too harsh. Such rulings stifle political diversity.
Rules are rules. You can’t breach royal protocol and expect no consequences.
Look, irrespective of who won, we need to focus on Phitsanulok’s development now.
True, the province’s future should be everyone’s priority.
The court’s ruling against MFP was a political maneuver. It’s about silencing dissent.
Whether you agree or not, it’s a lawful ruling. Let’s see how the PP adapts.
A low voter turnout will always question the legitimacy of such an election, despite Monchai’s landslide victory.
Even with low turnout, the majority spoke. Can’t argue with numbers.
It’s impressive how fast the PP mobilized after MFP was dissolved. Shows resilience!
Resilience aside, they should have prepared better. A closer look at voter needs would’ve helped.
I’m skeptical about Monchai’s intentions. Let’s see if he actually delivers on his promises.
Fingers crossed he does! We need progress, not just empty words.
Agreed. Time will tell if his gratitude speech was genuine.
Another election filled with drama but what’s being done about climate change in the region? Hardly any mention!
100%. Climate change should be at the center of every political agenda. These elections missed the mark.