Capt. Thammanat emphasized the importance of the military, warned Pita to be cautious of old rhetoric that might backfire, and firmly declared his party’s absolute refusal to engage with any party attempting to amend constitutional Chapters 1 and 2, despite Thanathorn’s willingness to cooperate across all political factions. He also stated he is not worried about the final stretch before the election.
At 09:30 at the Government House, Capt. Thammanat Prompao, advisor to the Kla Party, spoke about campaigning, saying the response has been good but the final results will be known on 8 February. Regarding the People's Party’s announcement that they will not cooperate with Kla Party, while Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of the Progressive Movement, stated he is open to alliances with all political camps, Capt. Thammanat said he is not focused on others but only on his own party. He emphasized that their principle remains firm: they absolutely refuse to cooperate with any party aiming to amend constitutional Chapters 1 and 2.
Asked whether he would urge the People’s Party to clarify their stance, Capt. Thammanat said there is no need for such calls. His party has clearly declared its position and never changed it. Since entering politics, he said, anything involving the three foundational pillars of the nation is absolutely off-limits. He reiterated that any interference with the nation, religion, or the monarchy is completely unacceptable.
Regarding his military background and whether Pita Limjaroenrat’s campaigning might stir up military-related issues, Capt. Thammanat responded that it would not. He said the military and armed forces remain within their proper domain and must not be drawn into politics. He noted that political infighting is common, and ultimately a central committee is needed to prevent harm to the country. Having graduated from the military academy himself, he said he understands soldiers well and believes that during crises, the military must step in to help resolve problems.
When asked if the rhetoric questioning the need for the military—such as “Why have an army if you lose wars?”—might resurface, Capt. Thammanat said it depends on whether such statements will rebound on those who made them. He did not specify anyone but emphasized that the nation’s institutions, which have coexisted for a long time, must be studied carefully, including their history. He stressed the importance of teaching future generations about Thailand’s history, noting the country’s survival is because it has an army. Regardless of era—from Siam to Bangkok—the nation endures because of its institutions and military. While equipment and technology may evolve, a country must always have a military.
Asked if he worries about underhanded tactics or attacks on Kla Party during the final campaign phase, Capt. Thammanat said that when Kla Party faces criticism or attacks, candidates must look inward and assess whether they meet the qualifications to run. If they are not ready or do not comply with the Election Commission’s regulations, they should blame themselves rather than others.
He added, “Candidates with weaknesses must take care of themselves. If something is against the law, they cannot run and must accept that reality. No one is trying to sabotage them; checks are necessary. If they are not caught now, they will be after the election. We have learned many lessons. We must look at ourselves and not blame others.”
Regarding concerns about the final stretch before the election, Capt. Thammanat said there are none if everyone stays grounded in reality and respects social rules. Anyone who breaks the law must face the justice system and prove themselves. Otherwise, they cannot remain in politics, even if elected by the people. He said some complain when facing scrutiny, and some parties grumble when criticized, but everyone must self-reflect.
Asked about his previous statement on a program expressing confidence that Kla Party will become the third-largest party in the election, Capt. Thammanat said they have screened candidates thoroughly—from over 350 to 140—and must continue filtering to meet their goals. Currently, Kla Party has 100 candidates under further screening to see if the number will remain the same. He said if all goes as planned, their candidates are ready to fight by all means until 8 February to determine how many remain.