Bangkok: "Sirikanya" campaigned at Din Daeng market, pleased with the public's feedback on issues, attributing it to trust in those working in the area. She affirmed she was not worried about being asked about amending Article 112 (L¨se-Majeesty) or the military on the border. Regarding policy, she believes Bangkok residents face diverse problems, emphasizing a holistic approach rather than focusing on a single policy that addresses them all.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sirikanya Tansakul, Deputy Leader and Prime Minister candidate of the People's Party, visited Din Daeng Central Market to campaign with Mr. Kantaphon Duangamphorn, the People's Party's candidate for Member of Parliament in Bangkok's Phaya Thai-Din Daeng district, number 7.
Ms. Sirikanya gave an interview after walking through the market, saying that today she was helping a candidate in the Din Daeng district campaign. She said it was very good that people greeted and addressed the candidate so familiarly, which shows her consistent work in the area. She had only recently visited the area before the dissolution of parliament. Besides greeting people, she also heard complaints about various problems related to daily life, such as power outages, parking, etc.
After listening to various issues, she felt that the work of the candidates in the past term, particularly in their constituencies, was excellent. Their work in parliament, as part of the Social Welfare Committee, was also very good. This resulted in the situation seen today. While some problems are within the authority of an MP to solve, others cannot, requiring coordination with relevant agencies. Some individuals also expressed their gratitude for the help in resolving their issues.
Regarding questions about amending Article 112 or issues concerning the military, Ms. Sirikanya stated that the party has faced similar problems since the last election in 2023. She acknowledged the need for understanding and composure in dealing with such situations, as there can sometimes be harsh words or actions. She expressed a desire to explain the situation to the public, but acknowledged that some people may not have the time to listen while others do not. She is not worried about this putting them at a political disadvantage. While some of the recent controversy leading up to the election is fake news, she also observed that when images of the party's parliamentary candidates being verbally abused or physically assaulted surfaced, the public offered support, and some even showed the videos to family members, potentially changing their minds.
Ms. Sirikanya admitted that while she didn't feel disadvantaged, she was truly disappointed that instead of focusing on discussing the party's policies and the positive things that would happen if the People's Party formed a government, she had to constantly answer questions and discuss this matter.
Regarding the key policies the party will use to attract Bangkok residents, there are various issues affecting them, such as PM2.5 and the cost of living. The party will strive to address problems within the government's purview. For example, PM2.5 originates partly in Bangkok and partly from other areas, so the government will use mechanisms to prevent agricultural burning. Concerning the cost of living, the party has a policy to reduce electricity costs. Many governments have tried to lower electricity bills, but have faced obstacles from various business groups. The party believes it is in a suitable position to act as a mediator on this issue for the public and has no concerns about conflicts of interest. For bus and train fares, they won't advocate for extremely low prices, but rather reasonable fares, with a maximum of 45 baht for a single trip regardless of travel distance. Regarding rent, the party has a policy to alleviate the rent burden by 1,000 baht for homeless citizens. Bangkok residents face di verse problems; the party isn't focusing on highlighting any single policy, but rather presenting a comprehensive overview of its policies, believing Bangkok residents cannot be won over by any single policy.
Afterward, Ms. Sirikanya and Mr. Kantaphon boarded a campaign vehicle and rode along the streets to promote and introduce the candidates, as well as announce the deadline for advance voting registration, which is today.