Chiang mai: Nattapong Ruangpanyawut emphasized the importance of establishing local authority to empower citizens to decide their own future. Speaking at Wat Phra Non (Khon Tan) in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, he highlighted the necessity of allowing ordinary people to enter politics to ensure that ultimate power rests with the people. He pledged to move forward with decentralization and establish local power so that citizens have the right to decide their own future.

According to Thai News Agency, Nattapong pointed out that Thailand has approximately 7 million ethnic groups, representing one-tenth of the total population. Regardless of their ethnic background, they are all Thai citizens whose voices must be heard equally. However, in past politics, the voices of ethnic minorities have not been loud enough. He emphasized the need for representation from a diverse range of people in Thailand, including ethnic groups, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other groups.

Nattapong criticized the traditional Thai political system, which often required aspiring politicians to have connections with financiers and powerful party owners. He acknowledged that this system has contributed to inequality, with issues such as shady money undermining the country. He expressed that the People's Party is the only political party in the country with a strong network of ethnic groups.

Addressing challenges faced by ethnic minority groups, Nattapong mentioned the difficult process of obtaining national identity cards, which can limit access to education and healthcare. He also highlighted issues like land seizure, underdeveloped infrastructure, and inadequate healthcare and education systems affecting ethnic communities.

Nattapong reiterated the People's Party's commitment to decentralization, managing overlapping forest areas, and empowering local people to determine their own future. He promised a 10 billion baht fund to verify land rights and return agricultural land rights if the party forms a government. He also emphasized the importance of establishing local power at the constitutional level to empower citizens.

With upcoming elections on February 8th, Nattapong called on the people of Chiang Mai's districts 5, 9, and 10 to support the People's Party and work towards forming a government based on the will of the people, aiming for a more progressive and advanced Thailand.