A large share of voters in Thailand’s eastern provinces remain undecided about their preferred prime ministerial candidate and political party, although support for the People’s Party continues to strengthen in the region, according to the latest survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida Poll).
The poll, conducted from Nov 13-18, surveyed 2,000 eligible voters aged 18 and above across eight eastern provinces — Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Trat, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri and Sa Kaeo. Respondents were drawn from varied educational, occupational and income backgrounds and interviewed by telephone.
Undecided voters lead the prime ministerial race
When asked who they would support as the next prime minister, 39.75% said they had not yet found a suitable candidate — the largest share by a wide margin.
Natthapong Rueangpanyawut of the People’s Party came in second with 15.9%, followed closely by Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul at 15.35%.
Former Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva ranked fourth with 8.2%, while Gen Rangsee Kitiyanasap of the Economic Party placed fifth at 5.6%.
Other names mentioned — each with less than 4% — included Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan (Thai Sang Thai), Julapun Amornvivat (Pheu Thai), former prime minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, and Pirapan Salirathavibhaga (United Thai Nation Party).
People’s Party tops party preference but indecision remains high
For party preference, 34.9% of respondents said they were still undecided.
The People’s Party followed closely with 24.65%, maintaining its strong showing across recent regional polls.
Bhumjaithai ranked third with 10.95%, the Democrat Party fourth with 7.95%, and Pheu Thai fifth with 7.5%.
Other parties received single-digit support, including the Economic Party (4.25%), United Thai Nation Party (3.9%), Thai Sang Thai (2.1%), and Palang Pracharath (1.85%).
Smaller parties — such as Thai Kao Mai, Kla Tham, Prachachat, Seri Ruam Thai, Chart Thai Pattana, Thai Pakdee, Sai Ruam Phalang and Phalang Burapha — recorded 1.7% or less. Another 0.25% did not answer or said they were not interested.
Trend across regions
Across earlier Nida surveys, voter indecision has remained the dominant factor in the Central, Northeast and Northern regions.
While most regions show large “undecided” blocs, the Northeast continues to show comparatively stronger support for the People’s Party.