Thaksin Urges Supporters to Vote in Crucial Chiang Mai Election

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Photo: The Thaiger

 

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has issued a fervent plea for his supporters to cast their votes in the Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections happening tomorrow in Chiang Mai. At a spirited rally on Thursday, the 75-year-old urged backing for Pichai Lertpongadisorn, the Pheu Thai candidate and current PAO president.

 

Addressing a crowd in Mueang district, Thaksin requested, “Give me only 700,000 votes. Let’s make it decisive without hesitation.” This election is seen as crucial for Pheu Thai’s plans to recover dominance by the 2027 General Election, after setbacks from the opposition People’s Party.

 

The PAO election has 42 council seats available. Pheu Thai aims to recover from its 2023 defeat when the People’s Party won seven out of ten Chiang Mai MP seats, leaving Pheu Thai with just two. Thaksin emphasized that this election is about both revenge and redemption.

 

 

Pun-Arj Chairatana, representing the People’s Party, is appealing for inclusivity in Chiang Mai's politics. “Please use the election to send a message that Chiang Mai belongs to everyone,” said Pun-Arj, who is supported by former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat. He is banking on youth and urban votes to challenge Pheu Thai's influence.

 

As Chiang Mai voters head to the polls along with 75 other provinces, the election represents a test of Thaksin's enduring power in Thai politics. An alcohol ban is in place from 6pm today, echoing the high stakes of this political contest.

 

-- 2025-01-31