The response was very positive as the hashtag #OneMoreDebate trended widely in Thailand after Thairath hosted a major debate where 8 prime minister candidates openly confronted each other’s visions. This was the first debate before the 2026 election.
The major debate stage drew significant attention. “One More Debate” by Thairath for the 2026 election. Especially on Twitter (X), many people used the hashtag #OneMoreDebatewhich quickly became a popular trend in Thailand after Thairath opened the platform for all 8 prime minister candidates from political parties to openly debate their visions.
The participants included Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the Prachachon Party and prime minister candidate; Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, prime minister candidate from the Pheu Thai Party; Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and prime minister candidate; Mr. Theerachai Phuwanatnaranuban, deputy leader and prime minister candidate from the Palang Pracharath Party; Mr. Peeraphan Sareeratwipak, leader of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party and prime minister candidate; Mr. Suchatwee Suwansawat, leader of the Thai Kao Mai Party and prime minister candidate; Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party and prime minister candidate; and General Rangsee Kitiyantrasap, leader of the Economic Party and prime minister candidate. Meanwhile, the Kla Party and Bhumjaithai Party did not send any prime minister candidates to participate in the debate.
The debate held today (23 Dec 2025 GMT+7) covered several questions of public interest, including concerns that if Thailand legalizes casinos and entertainment complexes, they could become massive money laundering centers and hubs for gray capital; the stances on amending the 2017 constitution; and the minimum wage issue. Parties presented various policies, both direct and indirect, but none disclosed clear figures or announced precise numbers. They also outlined conditions regarding which parties they would or would not form coalitions with, as well as predictions on the popular vote results for the 2026 prime minister candidates.
