Bangkok: An unofficial analysis of the recent election results highlights a significant shift in political power, as numerous incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) failed to secure re-election in several districts, contradicting the expectations of many political analysts. In a surprising turn of events, the Pheu Thai Party, once dominant in Chiang Mai, suffered a complete loss in every district.
According to Thai News Agency, the political landscape in Sa Kaeo has been notably altered with the defeat of Mr. Sarawong Thienthong, a former secretary-general of the Pheu Thai Party and previous Minister of Tourism. A long-time representative of Sa Kaeo's District 3, Mr. Thienthong was bested by Mr. Surasak Chingnawan of the Kla Tham Party, marking a significant change in leadership.
In Nan Province's Constituency 2, the election results delivered another major upset. Dr. Chonlanan Srikaew, a six-term MP and prominent figure within the Pheu Thai Party, was relegated to third place. Mr. Prasit Notha from the Kla Tham Party emerged victorious, signaling a shift in voter allegiance in this constituency.
Chiang Rai Province's District 3 also witnessed a notable political shakeup. Mr. Wisar Techa-theerawat, a former Deputy Minister of Interior and a seasoned nine-time MP from the Pheu Thai Party, failed to secure his seat, finishing third against Mr. Pitak Saengkham of the Kla Tham Party.
In Phrae Province's Constituency 3, Mr. Worawat Euapinyakul, another well-known figure from the Pheu Thai Party and former minister, was defeated by Ms. Laksnaree Duangtadam of the People's Party, reflecting the electorate's preference for new representation.
Nong Bua Lamphu's Constituency 2 saw Mr. Chaiya Brahma, a former nine-term MP who switched allegiance from Pheu Thai to the Kla Tham Party, lose to his former party's candidate, Mr. Rungphet Srikanjana, indicating a reversal of fortunes.
The political competition in Songkhla Province's Constituency 2 was intense, with Juri Numkaew of the Democrat Party defeating Dr. Suphat Hasuwanakit from the People's Party and ousting the incumbent, Sastra Sripan of the Bhumjaithai Party.
In Kanchanaburi's Constituency 5, the election was marked by controversy due to a leaked audio clip. Sakda Wichiansilp, who switched from Pheu Thai to Bhumjaithai, lost to Phanom Pho-kaew, the Pheu Thai candidate responsible for disclosing the contentious clip.
Chiang Mai, once a stronghold of the Pheu Thai Party, witnessed a comprehensive defeat for the party, with the People's Party securing six seats and the Kla Tham Party narrowly capturing four.
In a final note, the New Alternative Party, led by "P' Tae Mongkolkitt," secured a seat through the party-list system, although P' Tae himself remains unelected. Rachen Trakulwiang, listed first on the party list, successfully captured the position, while P' Tae expressed gratitude to voters for their support.