Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chantarawongthong has announced Pheu Thai Party's ambitious plans to send candidates to compete in upcoming provincial administrative organization elections across Thailand. Following a victory in Udon Thani, Prasert expressed optimism about a major sweep of local mayor seats anticipated in early February. According to Thai News Agency, Prasert, who is also a leader of the Pheu Thai Party, discussed the strategy of fielding candidates for the position of Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) president in various provinces. After the success in Udon Thani, the party is preparing for another election in Ubon Ratchathani at the end of December. However, it remains uncertain whether former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will participate in campaign activities, such as delivering speeches, in the upcoming elections. In Chiang Mai, a traditional stronghold for Pheu Thai, the party plans to send candidates despite having l ost to the Prachachon Party in a recent Member of Parliament election. Prasert reiterated the party's determination to reclaim and maintain its influence in the region, highlighting past achievements by the Pheu Thai Party's PAO. A mobile cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place in Chiang Mai soon, aiming to address local issues and strengthen the party's position. The victory in Udon Thani has reportedly bolstered both public confidence and the party's popularity, which is a driving force behind Pheu Thai's decision to field candidates in other provinces. Prasert conveyed confidence in the party's prospects, emphasizing that the win has positively impacted their electoral strategy. Looking ahead, the Pheu Thai Party is gearing up for a general election in February 2025, which aligns with the end of the current 4-year terms for most PAO presidents. Prasert indicated that the party intends to contest in numerous locations, anticipating a significant presence in the PAO elections. The upcoming elections are seen as an opportunity to capitalize on the vacancies created by resignations of several PAO presidents in recent times.
