Chuan campaigned for the Bangkok 13th district MP candidate, declaring that the Democrat Party will not be a minor party this election. He urged voters to choose both the candidate and the party to return to parliament, warned against vote-buying, and called on the Election Commission to take proactive measures.
On the evening of 21 January 2026 GMT+7, Chuan Leekpai, the Democrat Party (DP) party-list candidate, former Prime Minister, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, and former party leader, visited the area to campaign for Phanupong Laksanavisit, candidate for Bangkok's 13th district, covering Lat Phrao and Bueng Kum. The atmosphere was lively with local residents welcoming them warmly, especially southern Thais living in the district who expressed anticipation for the return of Chuan and Abhisit Vejjajiva. Drivers passing by rolled down their windows to wave greetings, while market vendors offered snacks, drinks, and fruit as gifts for Chuan to take with him.
During his speech, Chuan said, "We are fortunate that the Democrat Party has Abhisit back as leader. Two years ago, the party was at its lowest point since its founding. Once poised to be the best party, it became a minor party, a small party, and remained so for over two years, causing many to resign out of frustration. But I declared that even if I were the last one left, I would not quit. I would keep fighting with this party. It is because of our perseverance that the Democrat Party has revived. No matter how many seats we win this election, we will no longer be a minor or reserve party. Even with few MPs,
we remain a key party of the nation, steadfast in upholding integrity and honesty within a democratic system under the monarchy. I hope the people will elect the Democrat Party candidates in the greatest numbers possible. Regardless of numbers, I ask that this party returns as a stable force, committed to honesty as it has been for the past 79 years since its founding."
"In this 13th district of Bangkok, I entrust Phanupong, a young candidate who is a lawyer with a good education. I am confident enough to campaign for him because I know his character, having had him as my assistant when I was an MP. I know he will not seek personal gain but will serve the people. Even if he's not well-known or a star candidate, I want the Democrat Party to have representatives who can be the people's voice. Please support Phanupong in Bangkok's 13th district and vote Democrat Party number 27, so I, listed on the party list, who have served 17 terms—the longest in the world—can return to parliament."
Later, Chuan spoke about the Democrat Party's growing support in Bangkok, saying the trend is improving. However, he acknowledged that in rural areas, heavy vote-buying is prevalent. When assessing who will win, one must consider factors like financial spending—between someone spending 50 million baht and another spending 1 million baht, the outcome is predictable. Analyzing election results requires looking at multiple elements. He called for collective efforts to improve politics by opposing the vicious cycle of politicians buying votes. Citizens should be advised accordingly, and he thanked the media for focusing on this issue, believing their efforts are not wasted, even if not 100% effective. He warned not to trust those who claim honesty yet engage in vote-buying or party-switching, and urged the Election Commission to actively gather evidence rather than waiting for complaints.
Asked about polls indicating vote-buying amounts up to 7,500 baht per person in Bangkok and surrounding areas, Chuan said that generally, vote-buying is not that high. However, in tight local political contests decided by 5 votes, such sums might occur. Typically, MPs' elections do not see such high rates. For example, in Nakhon Si Thammarat's 8th district, vote-buying was around 500 baht but reportedly doubled the next day. He admitted hearing of local politics involving vote-buying in the thousands of baht range.
When asked about a popular social media page claiming police planned to raid the house of the Democrat Party's deputy leader, abbreviated "T", linked to drug trafficking, and noting that Chaiyanat Dechadecho, the party's southern deputy leader, had already clarified the matter, Chuan said, "We must be fair to Chaiyanat in his explanation, which stated that the surname was used by another person. It likely involves someone sharing the surname, which is not unusual since large surnames can include both good and bad individuals deserving fairness. I admit there may be discrediting tactics in politics involving dishonest methods like vote-buying or dirty tricks, but genuine politicians like us have no deceit. We only take the stage to clarify and help people understand better." ."}],
