Phumtham Warns Against Divisive Campaign Rhetoric in Final Election Push

On January 31, 2024, Phumtham Wechayachai, former Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, and Pheu Thai Party list candidate, posted a message on Facebook warning about the dangers of divisive campaign tactics in the final week of elections. He expressed concern about political discourse that separates people into factions, including labeling candidates as "patriotic" or "unpatriotic" and using conflicts with neighboring countries as political tools. Phumtham argued that good politics should not be based on fear, hatred, or creating enemies, as these tactics ultimately weaken national unity and the country's long-term ability to move forward. He stressed that patriotism should not be monopolized or used to stigmatize or judge others. Instead, political parties should offer clear policies, concrete work plans that address national challenges, and transparent explanations of how they will improve the country if elected. Phumtham invited all political parties to compete based on vision, capability, and responsibility to the country, allowing citizens to choose a "future" rather than being forced to choose a "side". He highlighted that after 20 years of conflict-driven politics, it's time to stop recurring divisions created for the benefit of specific parties or individuals. The message concluded by calling for Thais to choose the future through unity, standing at a critical crossroads where the power of collective agreement can shape the nation's path forward.