Chiang Mai: People have swiftly moved to request the Election Commission to investigate spoiled ballots following the provincial administrative organization elections in Chiang Mai and Samut Prakan. 'Teng Natthaphong' has issued an apology to the public, acknowledging shortcomings in campaigning efforts to encourage voter turnout. He is now focusing on advancing the work of the Lamphun Provincial Administrative Organization, aiming to demonstrate effective local governance. 'Sarayut' has highlighted that Saturday's election resulted in a drop of 2 million voters and will be submitting a request for an investigation into the spoiled ballots in the affected regions.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the Prachachon Party, alongside Mr. Sarayut Jailak, the party's secretary-general, and Mr. Wiradech Phuphisit, the prospective president of the Lamphun Provincial Administrative Organization, hosted a press conference after learning the unofficial election results for the Provincial Administrative Organization's president and members. They outlined the Prachachon Party's future strategies following their victory in Lamphun Province.
Mr. Nattapong expressed regret over the party's inability to sufficiently encourage voter participation at the local level, resulting in not achieving their goal of having the provincial administrative organization president in multiple provinces. He extended gratitude to the people of Lamphun for their high voter turnout, a factor contributing to the party's victory in the province. The Prachachon Party narrowly lost in other provinces like Chiang Mai and Samut Prakan, where they fell short by less than 10%.
The Prachachon Party secured trust from the electorate, gaining 132 Provincial Administrative Organization members across 33 provinces, with candidates for PAO president in 80 provinces and none in 52. The party remains committed to monitoring PAO budget allocations and advocating for project financing to address local issues.
Mr. Nattapong emphasized the party's upcoming initiatives in Lamphun Province, focusing on implementing policies at the local level using the City Data Platform, including geographic and spatial data for future policy planning. Immediate actions include upgrading healthcare facilities, improving infrastructure, and addressing environmental concerns, with plans to engage in participatory budgeting and transparent financial management.
From February to May 2025, the Prachachon Party aims to gather public input in Lamphun to prioritize urgent needs using advanced technologies, enhancing the province's development. The party is determined to continue engaging in local politics, preparing for upcoming municipal and tambon elections, and fostering public participation to improve Thai citizens' quality of life.
Mr. Ngongsrayut shared concerns about the impact of holding elections on a Saturday, noting a decrease in voter turnout from 62% to around 55%, equating to a loss of approximately 2 million voters. The decreased participation was observed significantly in provinces like Chanthaburi and Phuket. The Election Commission is urged to reconsider election scheduling to better accommodate voters.
Mr. Sarayut pointed out issues in Chiang Mai and Samut Prakan regarding an unusually high number of spoiled ballots. The Prachachon Party plans to request an official investigation to verify these claims and ensure electoral integrity.