Learning lessons from the election defeat with Pichan Chaowapanwong, Secretary-General of the People’s Party: from the general election to the Bangkok race, was the Orange Party truly out of step with the political game?
The Thairath Politics program visits the suburban home of Pichan Chaowapanwong, Secretary-General of the People’s Party, discussing the party’s hot issues, including ongoing attacks from former members and the party’s political path ahead under his leadership.
Pichan openly said that if he could turn back time, the People’s Party would not have voted for the Bhumjaithai Party. He acknowledged that decision as a mistake but asked everyone to understand that it was not made for the party’s benefit.
When asked if the People’s Party was inexperienced in political games, Pichan responded that
if political games mean prioritizing self-interest or the party’s gain, the party will not do that. They intend to conduct politics straightforwardly, work closely with the public, and build voter trust.
Pichan also denied hearing rumors about the party breaking up but said the fact that some members did not continue is something the party must improve on and better understand. He admitted that there have been many internal discussions about recent events.
He emphasized that the party’s stance remains the same, that political ups and downs are normal, and reaffirmed their commitment to being a good choice for voters in the next election.
“The People’s Party today is still the Orange Party, inviting everyone to join us on this journey,” Pichan said.
Pichan also addressed whether Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, Chair of the Progressive Movement, was truly deeply hurt after losing the election. He acknowledged that disappointment affected everyone—not just party members but also supporters.
Watch the full interview on lessons learned from the election defeat with the latest Secretary-General of the People’s Party, covering from the general election to the Bangkok race, as well as ongoing attacks from former members and questions about whether the Bangkok race’s candidate choices were mismatched, leading to an inability to compete with Chadchart, only on the Thairath News YouTube channel.
Interview by: Suphattra Lekpha
Photos: Kampon Lertsitisak, Kittikun Techati