Attakorn revealed that the Kla Tham Party will not field a candidate in the Sa Kaeo Constituency 3 by-election, acknowledging the limited time prevented finding a candidate. He stressed this is not a political retreat but a sign of respect for the Surasak family, adding that if not them, the party is unsure who else is ready to care for the area.
On 10 Nov 2026 at 17:00 GMT+7, Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, MP for Chachoengsao and spokesperson for the Kla Tham Party, spoke after a party meeting about nominating a candidate for the Sa Kaeo Constituency 3 by-election to replace the late Surasak Chingnaworn, former MP of the same area. He said that for about two weeks, party leader Thammanat Prompao and executives have been in discussion with Surasak's family. The party never considered not fielding a candidate in that area, but given the short timeframe and lack of a ready and willing candidate, they could not find anyone qualified in time. Meanwhile, Surasak's family is committed to continuing cooperation with the Kla Tham Party to carry on his mission to serve the people of Sa Kaeo, especially those in Constituency 3.
Attakorn said the party prioritizes carefully selecting candidates because they must be capable of addressing local problems, especially given Sa Kaeo’s sluggish economy in agriculture and trade sectors, which require someone who understands the area and can work continuously.
"If it is not Surasak’s family, we remain uncertain if anyone else can step in to care for and solve problems for the people of Sa Kaeo in such a short time. Surasak’s standards of work have always been recognized by the public, particularly in Aranyaprathet District, where public response has consistently been positive," he said.
The Kla Tham Party confirmed that if the Chingnaworn family is ready, the party will support them running in future by-elections under the party’s banner. The family has pledged to continue serving the people of Sa Kaeo even if they do not hold political office in the near future. Surasak’s intentions remain alive, entrusted to his wife, children, and family to carry on.
Regarding rumors that Sruang Thienthong, a Pheu Thai Party candidate, contacted them about candidate selection for this by-election, Attakorn said he was unaware of such discussions. He reaffirmed that the party’s decision is unrelated to other political factors but is based on appropriateness, readiness, and respect for the bereaved family.
"The Kla Tham Party values every constituency because the people have entrusted us. This decision also considers the mental and emotional state of Surasak’s family. We confirm everyone still has strong morale and will continue working with the party to serve the people of Sa Kaeo," he added.
Attakorn emphasized that the Kla Tham Party does not intend to withdraw from this by-election. The party remains confident in its local support base, especially the achievements and bonds Surasak built with the community. The party is ready to continue working to solve problems and care for the people of Sa Kaeo wholeheartedly.
