Sisaket: "Somsak," leading a formidable Pheu Thai Party contingent, delivered speeches across four platforms in support of "Phurika" during the Sisaket by-election. The campaign criticized former coalition parties for stagnating on policy advancement, failing to address the drug issue, and liberalizing cannabis. He underscored that electing them would position the opposition, while choosing Pheu Thai would mean a proactive government.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health, joined forces with prominent figures including Mr. Surawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports and Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, and several other MPs, to bolster Ms. Phurikha Sommai, Pheu Thai's MP candidate for Sisaket, Constituency 5. The rally, attended by over 7,000 people, showcased a vibrant exchange of ideas and policy commitments.
Mr. Somsak expressed his confidence in Ms. Phurika's suitability as an MP, citing her capability to represent the people's struggles. He criticized the previous coalition government's inaction on the drug problem, highlighting Pheu Thai's swift 17-day progress under Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, in tackling the issue. He urged Sisaket's voters to support Ms. Phurikha to ensure immediate and effective governance, contrasting it with the passive role of the opposition.
Further, Mr. Somsak elaborated on the initiatives for stability, such as the VHW Act, aimed at enhancing the role and resources of village health volunteers. He emphasized the Pheu Thai Party's commitment to advancing public health and policy reforms, pointing to the party's achievements in addressing drug issues and regulating cannabis use for medical purposes.
The campaign trail saw Mr. Somsak and Ms. Phurikha addressing crowds at multiple venues, including Wat Rabe and the Phusing District Office Auditorium, drawing substantial attendance. His speeches reiterated the message that only a government led by Pheu Thai could deliver tangible results and meet the people's needs effectively.
In an interview, Mr. Somsak reaffirmed Ms. Phurika's qualifications, backed by her family's political experience, making her a promising candidate capable of seamless integration into the legislative process. He also addressed concerns about border issues in Sisaket, assuring that the government remains committed to resolving them with a deep understanding of local contexts.