Abhisit led the Democrat Party's prospective Bangkok MPs to pay respects at the City Pillar Shrine to uplift morale ahead of the election, emphasizing they will not join any government supporting divisive policies.
On 26 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and prime ministerial candidate, accompanied by deputy leaders Dr. Kandej Liaoipiroj, Korn Chatikavanij, Sakoltee Phattiyakul, and party advisor Ong-art Klampaiboon, led the party’s 33 Bangkok candidates, known as “New Bangkok Sky,” in a ceremony at the City Pillar Shrine.
Sakoltee Phattiyakul, Democrat Party deputy leader overseeing Bangkok, said today is an auspicious day, especially since tomorrow (27 Dec) marks the first day for Bangkok MP candidate registration. The ceremony aims to energize and encourage the candidates before registration and the upcoming election.
“This is a way to seek auspicious beginnings and is a tradition among politicians to pay respects at the City Pillar Shrine for good fortune. It also serves to boost morale for the 33 ‘New Bangkok Sky’ candidates before the election and their registration tomorrow,” he said.
Sakoltee stressed that after all 33 Democrat Party candidates in Bangkok register and receive their ballot numbers tomorrow, they will immediately begin campaigning, following the principle of 'New Bangkok Sky: Ready First, Move First.'
“On 27 Dec, the Democrat Party’s 33 Bangkok candidates will officially launch their campaigns and begin canvassing immediately under the slogan ‘New Bangkok Sky: Ready First, Move First.’”
Sakoltee added he is confident in the readiness of all 33 Democrat Party Bangkok candidates, as they were carefully selected through multiple stages. Each candidate possesses knowledge, skills, and recognition from the party's selection committee and executive board.
“I am confident our Bangkok MPs will apply their expertise to improve the lives of Bangkok residents and the city immediately. Given the party’s improving poll trends, I expect we can reclaim our electoral ground in Bangkok.”
Meanwhile, Abhisit told reporters that the Democrat Party will today announce its three prime ministerial candidates. He said the three share similar thoughts, intentions, and visions, having worked together in various capacities. He is confident their future-oriented approach will be harmonious, as they have discussed campaign policies extensively prior to their selection.
Asked if the Democrat Party has an advantage over other parties, Abhisit declined to compare but explained the selection process for the three candidates. He urged the public to have confidence that these candidates share the same ideology and vision. He noted the party has been warmly received by the public and expects voters to take about 40 days to compare and decide, emphasizing the election’s importance for Thailand’s political and economic future.
Regarding the campaign, Abhisit said it begins by addressing current problems and the public’s feelings of exhaustion and frustration, highlighting the opportunity to overcome this state. The party introduced the concept of 'Thailand Free from Poverty,' clarifying that poverty is not only financial. They will gradually present policies addressing various aspects of poverty, with clear measurable goals. For example, within four years, they aim for Thailand’s economy to grow at least 5%, as seen in the past, and reduce household debt from 80–90% to about 60%. Achieving this requires an honest country, improved technology, legal reforms, and enhanced skills, all aimed at benefiting citizens.
In response to accusations of rhetorical tactics and recent declarations opposing the Kla Party, Abhisit stated: “This is not mere rhetoric but a genuine commitment. I have no intention to retaliate but have clearly stated a stance I believe is important and reflects what many citizens want—to see the country overcome its current challenges.”
Regarding perceptions that the Democrat Party may be unwilling to work with the Pheu Chart Party, Abhisit said this is unrelated. He noted there have been attempts to misinterpret or impose narratives that are untrue. He clarified that he has been explicit about not supporting or joining any government with policies that create division, especially concerning concerns over amending Section 112 of the Criminal Code. If any party holds such policies, the Democrat Party will not collaborate. He expressed confusion over why there have been efforts to misrepresent or misinterpret his statements.
When asked what type of parties the Democrat Party wishes to cooperate with, Abhisit said they want to work with all parties committed to building an honest nation with clear visions that will foster economic growth for the benefit and well-being of the people.