Abhisit Vejjajiva attends The Master Class 10, congratulating participants and hearing presentations at Bangkok Tower, September 19, 2025 | Photo via Abhisit Vejjajiva/Facebook

 

Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is favored to lead the Democrat Party into the next Thai general election, according to a NIDA Poll. The survey was carried out on September 15–16, involving 1,310 respondents from various educational and occupational backgrounds. This preference comes amid a leadership crisis in the party, following the recent resignation of leader Chalermchai Sri-on due to health concerns.

 

Chalermchai, 60, stepped down on September 12, citing his inability to fulfill his duties adequately due to his health issues. His resignation has intensified the leadership vacuum at a critical time as the party prepares for future elections. The poll results indicate a significant public interest in Abhisit Vejjajiva, with 32.90% support, and Chuan Leekpai trailing behind at 18.09%.

 

Other candidates received lesser support, with 16.72% of respondents expressing indifference or no opinion. Suchatvee Suwansawat, a former Bangkok governor candidate, garnered 8.17%, while former finance minister Korn Chatikavanij received 4.20%. The party's challenge is to appeal to undecided voters, as 37.58% remain uncertain about supporting the Democrats if their preferred leader is elected.

 

The Democrat Party, known as Thailand's oldest political entity, faces pressure to rejuvenate itself and strengthen voter relations. With 35.75% willing to vote if a favored leader is chosen, the party's leadership decision will significantly impact its future. As the general election looms, the Democrats need to strategically position themselves to address both internal and external challenges.

 

Looking ahead, the party must swiftly organize leadership elections and define a clear direction to regain its footing. The involvement of prominent figures like Abhisit and Chuan suggests potential pathways for reconsolidation. The broader political landscape will likely influence the party's ability to capitalize on its historical legacy.

 

Key Takeaways

• Abhisit Vejjajiva leads with 32.90% support in a recent NIDA Poll.
• Leadership change follows Chalermchai Sri-on’s resignation for health reasons.
• Democrat Party faces pressure to revitalize and connect with voters.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-22

 

 

8 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Abhisit Vejjajiva leads with 32.90% support in a recent NIDA Poll.

 

He's the only person capable of leading his party...

You mean he's not dead yet, or just the walking dead? Suthep must have put him up to it, the dirty old dog...

On 9/23/2025 at 3:15 AM, flyingtlger said:

 

He's the only person capable of leading his party...

He is a has been running a party fading into obsolescence. 2% share of votes last elections. They are a joke