Bangkok: Rear Admiral Anudith Nakornthap, Chairman of the Kla Tham Party's strategic committee, addressed recent issues surrounding the disqualification of party candidates, acknowledging that despite a thorough vetting process, errors were made regarding the assessment of candidates' assets.

According to Thai News Agency, Anudith commented on the Supreme Court's order that led to the removal of Cholsit Kaewyarat, a candidate for Constituency 2 in Phuket, from the election list due to his ownership of shares in a media company. Anudith stated that while the party's candidate selection committee conducted a detailed check of assets, including shareholdings, it failed to require candidates to declare their shareholdings explicitly. He deemed this oversight a learning opportunity for the Kla Tham Party and other political entities. Anudith clarified that possessing shares in a media company does not necessarily imply active involvement in media activities. He emphasized that this issue falls under the Election Commission's jurisdiction, and the candidate retains the right to appeal.

In addition, Anudith responded to the Election Commission's decision to disqualify Mr. Kongkiat Ketsombat, a candidate in Nakhon Si Thammarat Constituency 7, due to a prior conviction for corruption and theft. Kongkiat, who labeled the disqualification as a politically motivated attack, has filed an appeal. Anudith remarked that the intensity of election campaigns often leads to various strategies and circumstances surrounding candidates. As an incumbent and strong contender, Kongkiat must navigate the appeals process to ascertain the permanence of his disqualification. Anudith expressed confidence in the investigation process and confirmed that Kongkiat has already initiated an appeal.