Thaksin leads critical local election battle in northeast Thailand

The upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief election in Udon Thani has drawn national attention as Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the ruling Pheu Thai Party, leads campaign efforts against the emerging People’s Party challenger.

The November 24 election pits Pheu Thai’s candidate Sarawut Petchpanomporn against the People’s Party’s Kanisorn Khurirangon in what analysts view as a significant test of Pheu Thai’s political strength. The contest comes three months after Thaksin’s daughter assumed the role of prime minister.

The People’s Party campaign features prominent opposition figures including Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The party aims to improve its performance in local elections, where it has historically struggled against established parties like Pheu Thai.

In a notable campaign development, Thaksin has publicly criticised the People’s Party’s position on reforming Article 112, the lese majeste law. This stance marks a significant shift in Pheu Thai’s political messaging, as the party appears to be repositioning itself as a conservative force.

The move comes amid reports of improved relations between Thaksin and military leadership, following Pheu Thai’s successful government formation last year.

Udon Thani, traditionally a stronghold for Pheu Thai’s red-shirt supporters, has become a battleground where these evolving political dynamics are playing out. The election results could indicate whether Pheu Thai can maintain its dominance in local politics while adopting a more conservative stance, reported The Nation.

In related news, Thaksin’s planned campaign activities in Surin province are within legal bounds, Defence Minister and Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed on November 11, at Government House.

Thaksin, who is widely seen as Pheu Thai Party‘s de facto leader, is scheduled to visit Surin from tomorrow, November 19 to 20 to support Natthamon Siriwattanawanit, a former vice CEO of the provincial administration, in the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) CEO election set for November 23.