Dr. Chen Yoschanan, Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidate, declared his readiness to serve as prime minister. He said he can work with both the Orange and Blue parties, depending on the policies and public approval. He is not afraid to face the same political fate as the Shinawatra family.
On 17 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Mr. Yoschanan Wongsawat, known as Dr. Chen, Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidate, gave an interview on the "Worker News" program off-air. When asked if his wife opposed his candidacy, he said that once he had made a firm decision, his wife did not oppose it and was supportive.
When asked about fears related to the Shinawatra family's political fate—such as that of Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, Mrs. Yingluck Shinawatra, and Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra—Mr. Yoschanan said he is not afraid. Since leaving his career as an executive and researcher, he is ready. If Pheu Thai forms the government, he is prepared to be prime minister. He stressed the importance of confidence in being able to implement policies within the legal framework. When pressed about the possible repetition of that fate, he said destiny is in our hands. He admitted everyone is concerned but emphasized their focus on policy work. He acknowledged that being a Shinawatra has advantages but insisted no one will dominate him because he communicates his own independent ideas.
When asked if he had met Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra frequently before, Mr. Yoschanan said not often. Regarding readiness to be prime minister if Pheu Thai leads government formation and nominates him, he confirmed he is ready.
Addressing perceptions that Pheu Thai is in decline and losing support, Mr. Yoschanan said he is proud to be part of this effort to continue what was previously done. He is not worried because every phase of life requires action now. While some see this as Pheu Thai's low point, he views it as a time when Thailand can change.
When asked about political rival Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Yoschanan said everyone wishes well for the country. Looking ahead, everyone should help the country stand strong, because if Thailand does not change, the future is bleak. He emphasized that Pheu Thai is ready to lead that change.
Asked whether Pheu Thai's campaign would carry the images of Mr. Thaksin or Ms. Paethongtarn, Mr. Yoschanan neither denied nor concealed this. He stressed that if advice from those experienced in hardships is helpful, why not accept it?
Regarding the controversy over the "Uncle" audio clip, which still attracts public attention and may affect the election, Mr. Yoschanan said they strive to protect sovereignty and serve the people. If Pheu Thai remains, they will uphold sovereignty, respond proportionally, and balance diplomacy with military matters.
Mr. Yoschanan emphasized that if Pheu Thai wins the election, he will be prime minister. When asked if the main rival is the People's Party, he said they are not rivals and everyone must work together. When pressed if he has decided to cooperate with the People's Party, he said not exactly but that cooperation depends on political stability. Many policies failed previously due to lack of stability. Therefore, any partnership must share policy direction and have public approval.
Regarding views that the People's Party and Bhumjaithai are competing but whoever wins, Pheu Thai will form the government, Mr. Yoschanan said their goal is to lead the government to push policies forward. Asked if he accepts being third in the election, he reiterated their goal of winning 200 seats, which depends on the voters' decision.
When asked if he would rather cooperate with the Orange or Blue party, Mr. Yoschanan said he can work with all, depending on policy alignment and public approval.