Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, campaigned at Saengthip Market in Khlong Toei-Wattana, aiming to secure last-minute votes ahead of the upcoming election. He expressed confidence that the Democrat Party's policies, characterized by transparent budget spending, would not adversely affect public finances over the next four years.
According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit, joined by Mr. Sakoltee Phatthiyakul, deputy party leader responsible for Bangkok, and Mr. Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, candidate for Bangkok Constituency 4 (Khlong Toei-Wattana), engaged with vendors and citizens in a final push before the election. Abhisit expressed satisfaction in returning to his former constituency, reinforcing his connection with the local populace, and expressed optimism about the support for the party's candidate.
Abhisit highlighted that the party is actively gathering data to refine its campaign strategies in response to the popularity ratings assessed during the final campaign week. Addressing concerns raised by the Thailand Development Research Institute about the high budget of the Democrat Party's policies, Abhisit clarified that the figures submitted were part of a four-year budget framework, utilizing existing government funds rather than entirely new budgets.
He explained that certain proposals, like the welfare allowance, included existing payments, minimizing the perceived increase. Furthermore, some policies, such as the electricity subsidy, did not require any budget allocation. Abhisit emphasized that the party maintained fiscal discipline and urged the Election Commission to scrutinize other parties' budget proposals more rigorously.
In response to the Election Commission's plan to review candidate qualifications, Abhisit considered it a legal procedure, citing a recent case in Udon Thani province where an old court ruling surfaced unexpectedly. He assured that all procedures were followed meticulously, and the party remained untroubled about its image, having verified and explained its protocols.
Discussing government formation, Abhisit reiterated the party's stance that the election results would determine the next steps. He stressed the importance of collaboration if deemed beneficial, while acknowledging that each party would fulfill its parliamentary duties if cooperation was not possible.
Addressing the Bhumjaithai Party's stance on cooperation, Abhisit noted the lack of political clarity and denied rumors of criticizing the party. He emphasized the focus on policy competition and expressed surprise at reports suggesting criticism from Mr. Pipat, insisting the reports were unfounded.
As the campaign concluded, Abhisit focused on communicating key options and policies to the public, aiming to facilitate informed decision-making rather than relying on political tactics. The campaign visit was marked by a lively atmosphere, with residents and vendors engaging warmly with the officials, discussing economic challenges and expressing concerns over the cost of living.