The Pheu Thai Party, once a dominant force in Thailand’s political landscape, is at a crossroads. Political observers suggest that the party could still reclaim its former glory in the next national election, but only if it astutely learns from the recent Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections and adapts its strategies to meet the evolving political climate.
Notably, the Pheu Thai Party and its unofficial leader, the charismatic and sometimes controversial Thaksin Shinawatra, have seen a shift in their political influence. This is particularly evident in the North and Northeast, regions traditionally regarded as their strongholds. The outcome of the PAO elections held on February 1st did not align with Thaksin’s projections, despite his fervent campaigning efforts across various provinces.
In these elections, Pheu Thai candidates emerged successful in leading 10 PAOs, while six more provinces saw candidates aligned with the party clinching victory. However, these numbers were overshadowed by the Bhumjaithai Party, which outpaced them, securing 14 PAOs. Meanwhile, the People’s Party (PP), despite contesting in 17 provinces, managed to secure leadership in only one province, Lamphun, prompting many political analysts to question Thaksin’s enduring political sway in the country.
Thaksin, now reflecting on his political journey, admitted to feeling the generational shift, noting that individuals under 40 might not resonate with his past political achievements. Yet, he remains optimistic, predicting that Pheu Thai will secure no less than 200 seats in the House in the 2027 general election. However, political pundits caution that local and national elections are starkly different arenas. Local polls hinge on candidates’ deep-rooted ties with their communities, addressing immediate local needs, whereas national elections are primarily battles of ideologies and party policies.
Yutthaporn Issarachai, a political science expert from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, observed that the 10 PAO victories were commendable, particularly because Pheu Thai only fielded candidates in 14 provinces. The party’s loss in some areas, like Chiang Rai, was attributed to factors such as natural disasters, where the Bhumjaithai Party’s involvement in relief efforts swayed voter sentiment.
Local elections focused on resolving community issues, distinct from national concerns where party policies on issues like constitutional amendments and economic strategies hold more sway. Yutthaporn advised that Pheu Thai’s historic success with populist policies might not suffice in the next general election. A crucial shift towards clarifying political ideologies and creating distance from Thaksin could be beneficial. Embracing young politicians and tackling economic challenges head-on should enhance their electoral appeal.
On the other side, Stithorn Thananithichot, from King Prajadhipok’s Institute, emphasized the need for Thaksin to step up his game. Despite his personal appearances at campaign events, Pheu Thai needs to fortify its bonds with local leaders to match Bhumjaithai’s strengthened presence. Stithorn foresaw Bhumjaithai potentially securing more than 100 seats, while predicting a modest increase for Pheu Thai to about 130 seats.
The People’s Party, which performed poorly in the PAO elections, was reminded that local politics demand familiarity and genuine community engagement—lessons from their 2023 foray as the Move Forward Party. The case of Lamphun, underlining the importance of local affiliation, showed how Weeradet Phupisit’s heritage as a former PAO chief’s son resonated with voters.
As Thailand moves towards the national election stage, the political landscape remains an intriguing tapestry of evolving strategies, community connections, and ideological battles. Whether Pheu Thai can leverage its learnings from the PAO elections to regain power will be a storyline eagerly watched by many. Their ability to adapt will be the keystone to rekindling Thaksin’s political legacy, amidst the colorful and unpredictable sphere of Thai politics.
It’s high time Pheu Thai focus on younger leaders instead of clinging to Thaksin’s old narratives.
But Thaksin’s influence is still undeniable in many areas. Maybe the issue is more about strategy than leadership.
I agree strategy is important, but charismatic young leaders could be the fresh face they need!
Maybe blending experience with fresh faces could be their winning formula.
It’s not just about leadership; Pheu Thai should focus more on clear policy proposals that resonate with today’s issues.
Does anyone else feel that Bhumjaithai’s success is due to their hands-on involvement in crises, like the recent natural disasters?
Absolutely! People tend to remember who stands by them in tough times.
It’s all about being visible and helpful when it matters. A lesson Pheu Thai should learn fast.
Pheu Thai needs to rethink its approach to populist policies; they seem to be a relic of the past in today’s political scene.
Perhaps blending them with modern policy ideas would work better. What do you think?
I think you’re right. And focusing on sustainability and innovation might attract younger voters.
Thaksin may need to step aside entirely if Pheu Thai wants a real shot at reviving.
Full withdrawal may be extreme, but reducing his prominence could allow for new leaders to shine.
True, there’s value in easing the transition rather than a complete cut-off.
The PAO elections are just a warm-up; national elections are an entirely different beast!
Right, national elections are where strategies and party ideologies are put to the real test.
Bhumjaithai’s grassroots campaigns are impressive. Pheu Thai needs to adopt a similar approach.
I think the generational divide in political preferences is significant. Older voters still sway towards Thaksin, but younger ones want change.
You’re spot on, young voters are increasingly looking for leaders who understand their perspective.
If Pheu Thai continues to underestimate local issues and community ties, they’ll be outpaced by the likes of Bhumjaithai in a flash.
It’s intriguing how much importance local politics holds these days; it’s shaping national outcomes more than ever.
The transition from Thaksin’s legacy to a new era for Pheu Thai is inevitable if they wish to remain relevant.
Agreed, but it must be handled delicately to retain their existing base while appealing to new voters.
Pheu Thai needs to reconsider their candidacy choices for national elections based on their local influences.
I think Pheu Thai can still leverage its grassroots movements, but they need to innovate in their policy proposals.
Does anyone else feel like the People’s Party performance mirrors what happened in Lamphun?
For sure, local affiliations matter a lot. It’s people they trust and know.
The political landscape is shifting rapidly in Thailand, and Pheu Thai needs to catch up or risk being left behind.