We invited Abhisit to discuss politics in the final stretch, questioning whether the People's Party is competing with the Democrat Party in Bangkok. He acknowledged hopes of moving from challenger to champion once again, and discussed the viral trend "Want a partner like how Southerners love the Democrat Party."
On 29 Dec 2026 GMT+7, the Thairath Politics program interviewed Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, who returned to lead the party amidst a crisis and is working to revive it. He admitted that the party still faces tough competition with the People's Party in Bangkok and is not yet ready to estimate how many seats it will win there. Even in the South, where support has increased more than in other regions, more time is needed to assess due to various factors. However, polls show that nearly every Southern province mirrors the poll results from Songkhla province, except for the three Southern border provinces and Phuket.
"After visiting the area, the response was very positive. The expression of the South's strong bond with the Democrat Party is very clear (meaning they still love, trust, and await your return, Abhisit). They joke that people want a partner like how Southerners love the Democrat Party. It feels good because we truly have a connection. In times of political struggle, when no one else stood with us, the people of the South have consistently remained loyal," said Abhisit.
Abhisit further commented on competitors in the South, saying that the vote is now fragmented. Last time, the top party list was Move Forward Party, but they only won three constituency seats. Other competitors include Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, and Kla Party, causing a split. The party list and constituency results differ. There is still time to build on the Democrat Party’s recovery in the South, as well as in Bangkok, with expansion potential to other regions like the East, where reception is positive.
Regarding predictions that Bangkok's race is mainly between the People's Party and the Democrat Party, Abhisit stated: "If the People's Party sees us as the main challenger, that is good. The party is working hard to change its status from challenger to champion."
Abhisit also addressed the 'Half-Half' scheme promoted by many parties as an economic stimulus policy. He said it is not surprising to be used in campaigns, but the party does not emphasize it because their economic vision goes beyond that. He also discussed the constitutional amendment stance, political parties willing to join the next government, ministries they hope to lead if elected, and urgent problems Thailand must address, from the perspective of a former prime minister.
Photo: Ekalak Mai Noei