Bangkok: Yotsanan, wearing a red jacket, entered the party headquarters for the first time after being ill for three days. He declared he hasn't given up, that he's done his best, and that he won't let the votes of those who trusted him go to waste. He left the decision of whether to join the government or be in the opposition to the executive committee. He expressed confidence that Pheu Thai can make a comeback and revealed that this week he will compile election data from each constituency to submit to the Election Commission.
According to Thai News Agency, Yotsanu Wongsawat, the Pheu Thai Party's prime ministerial candidate, gave his first interview to the media after the unofficial election results were announced. He stated that his absence since February 9th was due to illness, a serious condition he had never experienced before. He said he has recovered but still has some minor voice-related issues, which is why he has returned to the Pheu Thai Party.
Mr. Yotsanan said, "Thank you to everyone who voted for the Pheu Thai Party. Looking back from the first day we entered the election field, there's nothing to be disappointed about with the results today because we did our best. The team also did their best. Many candidates have succeeded in becoming representatives of the people. For those who didn't make it, I want to encourage them, saying that they did their best. The people's voices matter. We are ready to play other roles in the field and continue to oversee the parliamentary mechanism. If asked if we are satisfied, we have done our best, and we are satisfied."
Regarding the results, which are considered the lowest point since the Thai Rak Thai party era until the Pheu Thai party, Mr. Yotsanan said that while that perspective might be acceptable, what they have accomplished since the election until today is satisfactory. As for the party's current stance over the past three days, they have studied various figures which do not align with their expectations. They will compile data on the election results in each constituency and submit it to the Election Commission (EC). They are also prepared to provide all necessary information to ensure a fair, just, and transparent election. For the country to move forward, it is essential to ensure that the election mechanism is trustworthy and that every vote cast by the people is legitimate.
When asked about the number of constituencies with questionable results, Mr. Yotsanan said that there were many problematic constituencies, and they would gather information and accept complaints through the party's website. He affirmed that he would stand with the people to ensure the election results were clear and legally acceptable.
When asked if he feared that the Pheu Thai Party would repeat the fate of some parties whose popularity declined to a worrying level, Mr. Yotsanan said that such an assessment is possible, but they are evaluating based on what they have done since day one, including the expectations. He stated that they have done well in this regard and wanted to assure Pheu Thai supporters that he will not give up. He will become stronger and has learned many more things. He sees that he can do more today and will fulfill the promises made to the people, regardless of his role. He also emphasized the importance of encouraging all candidates to stand firm and fight together on this journey.
When asked whether, as the number one candidate on the Pheu Thai Party's party-list, he would continue to serve as an MP, Mr. Yotsanan said, "Of course. Let the parliamentary process take its course. We have always maintained that if we enter politics, we must do so seriously and respect the voice of the people. Every vote given to us by the people is meaningful, and we are ready to prove ourselves in every role we play."
Regarding the Pheu Thai Party's stance on whether to be in opposition or join the government, Mr. Yotsanan stated that they have not yet been contacted, as this is the responsibility of the party's executive committee. However, he personally will strive to ensure that every vote, every role, every responsibility, and the transparency of the election are evident. He will clarify this matter this week, as they accept votes if they were obtained honestly and fairly.
When asked about the future of the Pheu Thai Party, whether it's in opposition or in government, and what conditions would influence its decisions, Mr. Yotsanan stated that he personally prioritizes the benefit of the people and the party's ideology, which he considers crucial factors in its future decisions.
When asked again whether it would be easy for the Bhumjaithai Party to make a decision, Mr. Yotsanan said that the party's executive committee would provide more information. Currently, they are trying to assess the situation, noting that based on the data, they might gain more seats in several constituencies. He said they would review the figures first and then decide on their stance. He emphasized that prioritizing the interests of the people and upholding the ideology they have always adhered to is paramount.
While assessing the factors contributing to the Pheu Thai Party's declining numbers, besides the election process which many questioned the transparency of, Mr. Yotsanan said that a statement will be released tomorrow (February 13th), outlining several areas that can be improved. Regarding the future of the Pheu Thai Party, he remains confident that the party can recover. He stated, "We can always come back. The nation always gives everyone a chance if they show good intentions. We have another four years to make this happen. But first and foremost, the election results must be fair. If it is ultimately proven that the election was conducted honestly, we are ready to accept the results, whatever they may be, and whatever role we play."
When asked about the election results in Chiang Mai province, Mr. Yotsanan stated that he had learned from the 2023 election where the Pheu Thai Party won only two seats, but this time the party was wiped out. He questioned whether this was due to abnormal mechanisms or the party's own fault, adding that he didn't want to jump to conclusions. He noted there were two or three possibilities, but emphasized the need to work harder.
After the interview, a reporter jokingly asked Mr. Yotsanan if he was afraid of being criticized for wearing a red jacket. Mr. Yotsanan immediately admitted that he was, afraid of being criticized for wearing a blue shirt. The reporter then joked that blue wasn't as bad as navy blue. Mr. Yotsanan explained that that's why he chose to wear his party's shirt today, both inside and out, all red.