The 'Orange Camp' feels pain as the People’s Party abandoned their voters, letting votes slip to 'thieves.' Teng Nattapong, with a trembling voice, explained that he too feels pain and emphasized that no one knew in advance how the 8 Feb election would turn out.
On 20 Jul 2026 at Novotel Bangkok Hotel, reporters noted that near the event’s end, attendees were given the chance to ask questions and express opinions. An elderly woman stood up to ask Nattapong Rueangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party (Pop Party), why he abandoned the voters’ support. She said, “When the Pop Party lost the election, I was very saddened. You must face the reality that you confronted thieves. You speak only about the guillotine law while living among thieves. Which thief would create laws to suppress thieves? I am pained by the corruption. Supporters of Pop Party need a space to express how deeply they regret for the country and their beloved party that left their votes for thieves to seize power. You speak what powerless people say, but then what? I am one of the Thai people asking why you don’t lead in uniting the people and take action instead of just waiting on stage.”
Teng responded with a trembling voice, explaining that he too feels pain.
Nattapong replied in a quivering voice that he cares deeply about those feelings, as he frequently hears such views at every event. He clarified why Pop Party voted for the Phalang Thai Party (Phalang Party) during the MOA round: at that time, the party faced limitations as it had no prime minister candidate able to join the government. If the country was to be led by a prime minister or leader whom they felt was a 'thief' or lacked transparency, the question was about the constraints then. Without a prime minister candidate, Pop Party sought to vote to unlock certain rules to address national problems. Had they joined the government then, many might have seen them as thieves. They could not be captains of a 'thief’s ship.' Would Thailand sail in the right direction then? Or could they serve as the majority opposition on another ship, scrutinizing the minority government? No one could predict the 8 Feb election results in advance. They believed the country could change and have hope. The captain of the ship is the most important person, needing genuine will to bring real change. But at that time, the limitations were real. They did not make the decision lightly.
Nattapong said they believe that to create change, they must have power to oversee and control. Certainly, after what has happened, many look back saying, “See, you handed over the keys.” He admitted no one truly knew. At least, the Pop Party might have caused some disappointment. He too feels pain but believes that as long as there is hope and people openly express themselves like this, the country will continue to grow.
Afterward, Karunpon Thiansuwan, deputy spokesperson of the People’s Party and event host, quickly cut off the questions and ended the session.