Yotsanan is confident about winning more MPs in Isan, believes the public can decide for themselves, sees the leaked audio about locking the prime minister position as old-style politics, emphasizes that patriotic sentiment has no effect, and stresses that everyone is united on border issues.
At 11:10 a.m. on 3 January 2026 in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, the Pheu Thai Party's prime ministerial candidate, spoke about campaigning in Constituency 7, where the previous MP switched parties. He expressed confidence in reclaiming the seat, stating that his team is actively engaging with local people and emphasizing policies that matter to them, such as ending poverty among Thais and profit insurance. In the final stretch, the focus will be on comprehensive communication to prepare voters for the 8 February election, highlighting the need for significant change. This involves summarizing overall policies and communicating in smaller forums, with candidates already campaigning on the ground.
When asked about the total of 133 constituencies in Isan and how many seats they expect to win, Yotsanan replied that they intend to do their best and at least win more seats than in the previous election.
Regarding a statement made during a campaign rally that politicians or parties must be grateful, and whether this message was directed at those who switched parties, Yotsanan said that he consistently emphasizes that the most important thing for a political party is the people. Therefore, if the people are suffering, the party must implement policies to support them.
Asked if the large delegation of all party executive members visiting the area is aimed at ensuring a win in Constituency 7, Yotsanan explained that the party executives visit all areas regularly. It so happened that many arrived from different events and met here before dispersing to various locations.
When pressed on whether winning in this area is a must, Yotsanan responded that every constituency matters. Asked if he is confident about maintaining their stronghold in Isan, he said he is confident because of the sincere bonds and ongoing support for the people of Isan. He believes their policies and candidates can genuinely help the local population.
Regarding the emphasis on border defense when visiting southern Isan, Yotsanan confirmed that this is indeed an important message to communicate. As a prime ministerial candidate, he must come here to assure the public that they will protect sovereignty and peace, as well as support livelihoods and provide relief to people in all border provinces, not just Ubon Ratchathani.
Asked if border issues are a vulnerability for Pheu Thai that could be exploited, Yotsanan said he believes this is unrelated. On border matters, everyone stands united, and there is no division. They have engaged with the public and look forward to restoring normalcy as soon as possible.
When questioned about how they will respond to nationalism rhetoric from the Blue side during the final campaign phase, Yotsanan said it will have no effect because they consistently communicate that the nation is a cause for unity among all.
Asked about the leaked audio suggesting Pheu Thai will be unable to form a government and whether this will positively or negatively affect the party, Yotsanan declined direct criticism but said that when the public hears it, they can make their own decisions.
Reporters asked how he views claims of a pre-decided prime minister before the election. Yotsanan replied that respecting the public is paramount. He reiterated that elections are about communicating policies so people know who can deliver for them, and voters will make their choice accordingly. The party stands firmly on helping the people.
Regarding the leaked audio coinciding with a Pheu Thai MP candidate in Kanchanaburi posting about receiving threats, Yotsanan said he sees this as old-style politics that the public is beginning to recognize. He hopes such tactics will not happen in this election, emphasizing that Thailand must move forward without division. The people will decide whether to support politics of division or progress.
Asked if the developments in the final campaign phase will affect voters’ decisions, Yotsanan affirmed their commitment to communicate everything clearly and do their best. Their continuous ground campaigning and strong candidate efforts will help the public understand and give them another chance.