Pipat, a leading figure in the Bhumjaithai Party, emphasized that Bhumjaithai will certainly field more than one prime ministerial candidate, with two more awaiting announcement tomorrow. The party aims to secure no fewer than 30 parliamentary seats in the South.
At 09:35 on 23 December 2025 GMT+7 at the Government House, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, and a Bhumjaithai Party leader responsible for the Southern electoral area, stated that the party must make its utmost effort, having prepared from early on. Regarding the election scheduled for 8 February 2026 GMT+7, he said the Southern region needs improvements because it has lacked opportunities for over 30 years. If Southerners want to reclaim opportunities, he is ready to help, especially in public utilities and expanding transportation routes. Discussions have taken place with the Permanent Secretary of Transport, the Director-General, and related agencies, as the South remains the poorest region in per capita income ranking.
Regarding the flooding in the South and its impact on Bhumjaithai, Mr. Pipat said it is impossible to say there was no effect, but natural disasters must be accepted. In 2025 especially, local officials miscalculated, while Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Affairs Anutin Charnvirakul has worked to resolve and provide relief, which had been slow previously. The Prime Minister ordered acceleration, and over 97% of aid has been distributed, with only a few cases delayed, aiming to complete before year-end.
When asked how many parliamentary seats he expects in the South, Mr. Pipat reaffirmed the target of no less than 30 seats, explaining that falling below that would undermine the commitment of MPs who switched to Bhumjaithai, currently totaling 32 constituency MPs. Maintaining existing seats is the goal, as election statistics show about 30% of incumbents lose, but efforts continue because candidates have joined Bhumjaithai’s ideals.
Regarding the launch of candidates from Kla Party and Democrat Party as formidable competitors, Mr. Pipat said politics is competition. He believes Bhumjaithai is well prepared and confident. How well other parties prepare depends on their policies, leaving voters in the 14 Southern provinces to decide which party's representatives to choose.
Asked if Bhumjaithai will reveal its prime ministerial candidate at the party meeting on 24 December, Mr. Pipat said the party will unveil all 500 parliamentary candidates, both party-list and constituency-based, at that time.
Concerning prime ministerial candidates, Mr. Anutin is number one; the other two will be announced tomorrow. He confirmed Bhumjaithai is not fielding only one candidate, noting that past experience shows having only one candidate is risky due to ethical uncertainties. If mistakes occur now or in the past, having additional candidates ensures there is a ready prime minister to lead the government on behalf of the party.