The People’s Party has emerged as the most popular political party in the Northeast, while Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul ranks as the region’s top preferred candidate for prime minister, according to the recent survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida Poll).
The poll, titled ‘Political Trends in Isan’, was conducted between Oct 27 and 30 among 2,000 eligible voters aged 18 and over across all provinces of the Northeast, representing various education, occupations and income groups. It aimed to gauge the current political mood in the region.
When asked who they would support for the post of prime minister if an election were held today, 32.40% of respondents said they had not yet found anyone suitable. 19.70% backed Anutin Charnvirakul of the Bhumjaithai Party, followed by 18.55% for Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People’s Party.
In fourth place was Chaikasem Nitisiri of the Pheu Thai Party with 8.80%, followed by Abhisit Vejjajiva of the Democrat Party (6.10%), Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan of the Thai Sang Thai Party (4.80%), and Gen Rangsee Kitiyantrapat of the Economy Party (2.80%).
Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, former prime minister, received 2.70%, followed by Pirapan Salirathavibhaga of the United Thai Nation Party (1.55%). The remaining 2.5% mentioned other figures such as Varawut Silpa-archa, Suchatvee Suwansawat, Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, Pol Col Thawee Sodsong, Rangsiman Rome, Narumon Pinyosinwat, Chaturon Chaisang, Dech-it Khaothong, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, Wasawat Puangpornsri, and Pol Gen Sereepisuth Temeeyaves. Only 0.10% did not answer or were not interested.
When asked which political party they would currently support, the People’s Party led with 26.05%, followed by ‘no suitable party’ (24.65%), Pheu Thai Party (16.85%), and Bhumjaithai Party (15.75%).
Trailing behind were the Democrat Party (5.55%), United Thai Nation Party (3.45%), Thai Sang Thai Party (2.75%), Economy Party (2.05%), and Palang Pracharath Party (1.50%).
Another 1.30% mentioned smaller parties, including Prachachart, Chartthaipattana, Thai Kao Mai, Thai Pakdee, Kla Tham, and Thai Liberal parties. Only 0.10% declined to answer.
The results highlight a shifting political sentiment in Isan – a region traditionally dominated by Pheu Thai – as newer players like the People’s Party and Bhumjaithai continue to gain momentum among voters.