Yotsanan Wongsawat conducted a merit-making alms offering and market walk for the New Year. He remains undeterred by the Pheu Thai Party's low poll ratings and is confident that the public accepts the party's policies. He emphasized that if the party forms the government, it will not reduce the security budget and will use diplomacy alongside the military to defend against threats to the country.
On 1 Jan 2026 at 06:30 GMT+7, at Wat Phra Sri Maha That Woramahawihan in Bang Khen, Yotsanan Wongsawat, Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidate, led a group of Bangkok MP candidates including Surachart Thienthong (Bangkok Constituency 8), Sayan Chanmueanphueak (Constituency 9), Phumipat Hosakul (Constituency 10), Rattikan Kaewkedmee (Constituency 11), and Phurpha Thaitae (Constituency 12) to offer alms to 20 monks. Afterward, Yotsanan stated this is a good Thai tradition, highlighting temple culture as a form of tourism involving arts and heritage. He pledged to improve transportation to facilitate visiting beautiful sites. Many temples, both in Bangkok and provinces, are old with architectural significance little known globally, presenting opportunities to increase tourism. He then visited Ying Charoen Market to meet vendors and shoppers and led the candidates in paying respects at the market's Brahma shrine.
Yotsanan wished everyone a happy New Year on 1 Jan 2026 GMT+7, noting that Pheu Thai has the number 9 on the ballot, symbolizing simple communication. He encouraged all Thais to have strength, hope, and dreams for the country's progress. He said that on 8 Feb, Pheu Thai is prepared to continue implementing existing policies to fulfill the people's hopes and sustainably develop the nation.
Regarding Pheu Thai's popularity after five days of campaigning, despite Dusit Poll showing the party ranking near the bottom, Yotsanan said this is not a problem. Field visits show public acceptance of Pheu Thai policies. The party still has time to propose new policies, increasing confidence. Candidates are actively campaigning. Poll results are considered for improvement, though some polls offer encouragement, affirming the party’s commitment to advance Thailand.
Yotsanan discussed security policies, emphasizing a comprehensive system. Pheu Thai aims to establish a fully digital government. Diplomacy and foreign relations must connect with international agencies to protect domestic information and identify external threats. Combating scammers will be linked with fighting drugs and corruption. Regarding Thai-Cambodia border security, short-term focus is on helping residents resume normal life. If in government, Pheu Thai will prioritize sovereignty and support strong border forces, combining diplomacy and military efforts while communicating to the global community that Thailand's actions are justified. Any reduction in personnel will be based on threat assessments, with budget and manpower allocated accordingly. Threats include digital and cyber forms; enhancements will cover drones and military medical services. Security budgets will not be cut but will lead military research initiatives. Military conscription will be properly proportioned. Given current threats, armed forces remain essential and will coordinate with military leaders for ongoing evaluation.