Chiang Mai: Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand, took to the stage at the Empress Convention Center in Chiang Mai to rally support for Asanee Buranupakorn, the Pheu Thai Party’s candidate for Chiang Mai mayor. Addressing the audience in the northern dialect, Thaksin emphasized the importance of electing Pheu Thai to ensure the city’s development into a thriving and beautiful locale.

According to Thai News Agency, Thaksin was joined on stage by Asanee Buranupakorn, who is vying for the mayoral position under the Pheu Thai Party, and Pichai Lertpongadisorn, President of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organization. Supporters donning the party’s signature red shirts attended the event. Thaksin highlighted the challenges faced by the Prachachon Party in forming a government and underscored the need for Pheu Thai’s leadership for sustained development, particularly in Chiang Mai.

Thaksin reflected on his past ambitions for Chiang Mai, lamenting that his plans were thwarted before they could be realized. He appealed for votes for Asanee, expressing confidence in his prospects and the potential for Chiang Mai to become a model city once again. Thaksin also shared his belief in Asanee’s strong candidacy, citing his consistent engagement with local communities as a key factor.

The Chiang Mai mayoral race features several notable candidates, including Teerawut Kaewfong from the Prachachon Party, who advocates for public participation in municipal development. Meanwhile, Pananrat, running under the For Chiang Mai group, promotes a vision of inclusive and independent leadership. The political landscape in the region remains dynamic, with various candidates presenting distinct visions for Chiang Mai’s future.