“Teng Natthapong” cast his vote at 09:46 in the 2026 election and referendum, encouraging the public to exercise their voting rights widely. He pointed out that power lies at the tip of the pen and offered encouragement to election officials to ensure the election is transparent and fair.,
On 8 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party and prime ministerial candidate, arrived at the polling station at 09:46. He paused to allow photographers to take pictures, then greeted and embraced his father and mother. He received green and pink ballots to vote for constituency and party-list members of parliament, entered the voting booth at 09:52, and cast his ballots at 09:54. He then collected a yellow referendum ballot and submitted it at 09:56.
After voting, Mr. Natthapong spoke to Thai and international media, saying it was a day for everyone to exercise their voting rights. He expressed excitement, noting that today was the day all Thais chose their future. He expressed confidence that citizens would elect a government based on policies beneficial to them and the country. He viewed this moment as crucial for citizens’ voices to change the country and select government leadership, affirming his trust in the people's voice.
When asked about his first feelings after voting, Mr. Natthapong said he was happy and had asked election officials, who reported that voter turnout was enthusiastic. He felt good and was confident turnout would exceed 70%. He noted that during his prior campaigning, the public showed strong engagement and interest in this election.
“I want to urge the public to come out quickly to vote in both the election and referendum because the power is now at the tip of every voter’s pen. Anyone who wishes to see a better future for Thailand should come out and show their strength in large numbers.”
Mr. Natthapong said the voting process went smoothly and expressed concern for the media to exercise their voting rights as well. Regarding the war room, he said teams are already deployed as observers to monitor vote counting throughout the day, ready to protect citizens’ rights and votes. So far, no concerning reports have emerged. He encouraged all election officials to perform their duties fully to ensure the election and referendum proceed transparently and fairly.
Regarding vote counts after the polls close today, Mr. Natthapong said he would wait to see results around 20:00–21:00 GMT+7. He shared that his parents fully supported him and voted before him. When asked about Mr. Pita Limjaroenrat, former Move Forward Party leader, revealing personal relationship news, Mr. Natthapong said Pita did not consult him but he wished him well.
