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Powerful Political Families Dominate PAO Elections in Ayutthaya, Chai Nat, and Phayao

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Elections for provincial administration organization (PAO) chairs in Ayutthaya, Chai Nat, and Phayao saw triumphant victories for candidates from influential “Ban Yai” political families affiliated with major government parties, namely Bhumjaithai, the United Thai Nation Party, and the Pheu Thai Party. Sunday’s contests showcased the might of established political dynasties in Thailand.

In Ayutthaya, the indomitable Somsong Phancharoenworakul, a seasoned veteran with five terms as chairwoman under her belt, overshadowed her rival, Watcharapong Radomsittipat. Ms. Somsong amassed a staggering 245,457 votes, leaving Mr. Watcharapong, who represented the Kao Mai Ayutthaya group and adopted the color orange synonymous with the Move Forward Party, far behind with 114,063 votes. No surprise here, given that Ms. Somsong is the mother of Bhumjaithai MP and Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul and also boasts a niece, Pimprueda Tanjararak, who is an MP for the province.

Over in Chai Nat, familial ties also proved decisive. Jitthana Yingthaweelapha, sister to UTN MP Anucha Nakasai, clinched the PAO chair with 62,860 votes, outpacing Sutthipoj Chue-apaiwong, a former Move Forward Party (MFP) candidate, who garnered 44,690 votes. Ms. Jitthana stepped into the fray after her brother, Anusorn Nakasai, vacated the PAO chairmanship, spurring an early election.

Phayao witnessed a decisive triumph for Thawat Sutthawong of the Pheu Thai Party, who clinched 174,669 votes against the 35,172 votes secured by his MFP-backed opponent, Chaiprapan Singchai. Mr. Thawat has strong political connections, notably as a close confidant of Akara Prompow, brother to Capt Thamanat Prompow, the secretary-general of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP). Initially, Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra unveiled Akara as their PAO candidate, but a shift in plans saw Mr. Thawat stepping up to the plate.

Political pundits suggest a wave of PAO elections nationwide early next year, following a series of PAO chairs’ resignations, likely intended to trigger early elections and catch the MFP off guard. MFP candidates, facing significant challenges, stood as independents in these recent contests.

Looking ahead, the spotlight turns to Ratchaburi, where an upcoming PAO election on September 1st promises to be another political showdown. The seat was vacated by Wiwat Nitikanchan, the spouse of PPRP MP Boonying Nitikanchana, to prompt the election. The MFP-backed candidate, businessman Chairat Sakissarapong, is gearing up for a rigorous campaign.

As these political dynasties flex their muscles, it’s clear the landscape of local Thai politics remains as vibrant and unpredictable as ever. Stay tuned as these dramatic electoral contests continue to unfold.

35 Comments

  1. Ajarn Krit August 5, 2024

    It’s disheartening to see the same political families dominating the elections year after year. Democracy in Thailand suffers when it’s more about lineage than merit.

    • Nok K August 5, 2024

      What do you expect? It’s all about connections here. At least they have experience, right?

      • Ajarn Krit August 5, 2024

        Experience should come with accountability. Otherwise, it just perpetuates the same corrupt systems.

      • Chanapat August 5, 2024

        Right, but new faces don’t guarantee anything better. Remember how often people are disappointed with newcomers too.

  2. Lek August 5, 2024

    Why are people not supporting Move Forward Party more? They seem like a breath of fresh air compared to the old guard.

    • Surin19 August 5, 2024

      Because MFP lacks the same deep-rooted connections and influence. It’s hard to break into these established networks.

      • Lek August 5, 2024

        But isn’t it time for change? How long are we going to let these families run the show?

      • Sarinya J August 5, 2024

        Time for change, yes, but change has to be strategic. MFP needs to build their base more effectively.

  3. Vasinee August 5, 2024

    Another predictable round of elections. There’s no hope for true democratic reform in this environment.

    • Patcha August 5, 2024

      It feels like that sometimes, but we need to keep pushing for change. Sitting back and complaining won’t solve anything.

    • Vasinee August 5, 2024

      True, but it’s so frustrating. The system is rigged from the start.

  4. Nattaporn August 5, 2024

    Jitthana winning in Chai Nat was expected. Her family’s influence there is enormous. But what does this mean for ordinary citizens?

    • Phairot August 5, 2024

      It means more of the same policies favoring the elites. Ordinary citizens will keep waiting for their turn.

    • Mai T August 5, 2024

      Perhaps a better understanding of local needs? Sometimes familiar faces ensure continuity.

  5. ThaksinFan August 5, 2024

    Happy to see Thawat Sutthawong winning in Phayao! Strong leadership is needed to move the province forward.

  6. Suree S August 5, 2024

    People often underestimate the impact of these local elections. They really shape life in the provinces.

  7. Jonas August 5, 2024

    Is it just me, or does PAO elections seem more like a family reunion than a democratic process?

    • Wanchai P. August 5, 2024

      Haha, that’s a sharp observation! But seriously, it’s a troubling trend.

    • Jonas August 6, 2024

      Right? It’s like watching the same movie with different actors.

  8. Amporn August 5, 2024

    I have more faith in seasoned politicians than in novices with zero experience. They know the ropes.

  9. Cholthicha August 5, 2024

    Dynastic politics is not just a problem in Thailand; it’s a global issue. Look at the Kennedys in the USA.

  10. Kit D. August 6, 2024

    The focus should shift to younger, visionary leaders. Time has come for generational change.

    • Supachai August 6, 2024

      That’s easier said than done. Younger leaders need to be groomed and supported by the current system, and that takes time.

    • Kit D. August 6, 2024

      Fair point, but if we never start, nothing will change.

  11. Kanya August 6, 2024

    How can new leaders emerge when the gatekeepers are the same old faces?

    • Wit August 6, 2024

      True. It’s like new players trying to join a rigged game. The system needs fundamental reform.

    • Kanya August 6, 2024

      Exactly. Without systemic change, new leaders will always be at a disadvantage.

  12. Preecha August 6, 2024

    The issue lies in voter mentality. Loyalty to families over ideologies is deeply ingrained in our culture.

    • Siwat August 6, 2024

      Sort of like brand loyalty, but for politicians. People trust what they know.

    • Preecha August 6, 2024

      Yes, and breaking that cycle is a monumental task.

  13. Chalerm August 6, 2024

    It’s funny. We talk about democratic values but ignore the fact that our elections are family affairs.

  14. Narissara August 6, 2024

    Social media can be a powerful tool for new candidates. It’s how they can reach the younger generational vote.

    • Prim S August 6, 2024

      That’s true, but social media campaigns lack the personal touch and grassroots connection.

    • Narissara August 6, 2024

      Indeed, but it’s a start. Modern problems require modern solutions.

  15. Adisak August 6, 2024

    Opting for the status quo only ensures stagnation. We need forward-thinking leadership now more than ever.

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