Kanchanaburi: Sakda Wichiensin, Deputy Minister of the Interior and former Pheu Thai Party MP for Kanchanaburi, has expressed confidence that Bhumjaithai Party will secure victory in the upcoming Kanchanaburi by-election. He believes the public’s support for his daughter, Wisuda, who has actively addressed local issues, will be pivotal in the election outcome.

According to Thai News Agency, Sakda revealed that Pheu Thai Party is facing significant internal challenges, with many members leaving and the party struggling to rejuvenate its ranks. Despite these challenges, the party is preparing to introduce a number of new candidates. Sakda, who retired in 2022 and subsequently became an MP, has maintained strong connections with the public, addressing farmers’ concerns and coordinating with government agencies to solve local problems, such as water, roads, lighting, and agricultural issues.

Sakda emphasized the importance of local familiarity in elections, stating that locals prefer representatives who have been actively involved in their community rather than outsiders. He expressed confidence that his daughter represents a new, stronger wave of leadership that will resonate with voters.

Addressing criticism about the costs associated with his resignation to assume the Deputy Interior Minister role and the subsequent by-election, Sakda noted that a full parliamentary dissolution would have incurred even higher costs. He dismissed attacks as political maneuvering and expressed no personal animosity.

Regarding the potential impact of the by-election on the 2026 general election, Sakda suggested it could influence outcomes, especially given the agricultural focus of the Bhumjaithai Party. He criticized the previous government’s lack of attention to agricultural issues and expressed confidence that rural constituents might feel uncomfortable with Pheu Thai’s performance.

Sakda acknowledged ongoing defections from Pheu Thai, attributing them to the party’s inability to address agricultural product challenges. He highlighted the importance of representatives aligning with farmers’ needs and suggested that if the Bhumjaithai Party succeeds in raising agricultural product prices, it would secure widespread support.

Addressing Pheu Thai’s announcement of a major overhaul, Sakda described the party’s machinery as broken and questioned the effectiveness of spiritual leaders in restoring faith among MPs and members. He underscored the importance of constituency representatives advocating for farmers.

Finally, Sakda dismissed notions of a pride-driven election battle, asserting that his focus remains on serving the people who continue to support his efforts.