Thammanat supports Watthana Changlao's candidacy for Khon Kaen Provincial Administrative Organization president, confident in his ability as a capable worker who coordinates broadly to drive the city forward, signaling the Kla Tham party's intention to establish a stronghold in Isan and attract major budget allocations to the area.
On 27 Aug 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that Mr. Watthana Changlao, candidate number 1 for the Khon Kaen Provincial Administrative Organization presidency, along with members of parliament and candidates from the Kla Tham party, visited Lieutenant Colonel Thammanat Prompao, the party leader, to discuss and exchange views on local development strategies. Lieutenant Colonel Thammanat and the Kla Tham party expressed full support, recognizing Watthana's genuine commitment and readiness for continuous local administrative work.
The team of MPs and Kla Tham party leaders expressed confidence in Mr. Watthana’s capabilities, emphasizing that over the past year they have collaborated closely to push budget allocations and various development projects into Khon Kaen, achieving continuous tangible results. They are confident that if Mr. Watthana is entrusted to continue this work, he can lead Khon Kaen toward significant positive transformation.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Thammanat praised Mr. Watthana as a highly capable new-generation leader, highlighting his expertise in management and effective coordination as a connector across all directions—from national level, ministries, departments, down to local levels—reaching all community groups. These qualities are considered crucial for managing a large local administrative organization.
Furthermore, the discussion emphasized Khon Kaen's potential as the central hub of the Isan region in terms of economy, education, healthcare, and transportation. However, Khon Kaen still lacks leadership capable of fully unlocking its true potential. This requires an individual who is "ready, with a clear plan," and has the ability to coordinate with major national political forces locally to attract budget and strategic projects effectively for provincial development.