BANGKOK, THAILAND – A new opinion poll in southern Thailand showed former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva leading preferences, while undecided voters formed the largest single group.
Methodology and scope of the survey
The National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) conducted the survey between 18 and 24 November among 2,000 people in 14 provinces in southern Thailand. The results indicated the current political mood in a region traditionally seen as a democratic stronghold. Questions focused on preferences for the next prime minister and for political parties.
Abhisit leads field for next premier
For the post of prime minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva ranked first with 25.65% support. He was followed by incumbent Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of the Bhumjaithai Party, who received 15.40%. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the election-winning People’s Party came third with 12.85%, while the former ruling Pheu Thai Party gained only 1.25%.
Undecided voters outnumber all candidates
The most striking result was that 32.25% of respondents said they did not yet see any suitable candidate. This undecided group was larger than the support for any individual contender and highlighted deep uncertainty among voters in southern Thailand. Even Abhisit was unable to convince more than about one in four voters, suggesting a fluid political landscape.
Democrat Party still strongest, but doubts remain
In party preferences, the Democrat Party led with 28.60%. However, 28.45% of those surveyed said they could not choose any party at all, again underscoring widespread hesitation. The People’s Party recorded 17.80%, governing Bhumjaithai 11.65%, and the once dominant Pheu Thai just 2.45%.
Signals of fragmentation and a warning for the coalition
The findings pointed to an ongoing fragmentation of the political landscape in southern Thailand. While the Democrats appeared able to maintain their traditional base, many voters seemed dissatisfied with the options available. The weak figures for governing parties were described as a potential warning sign for the ruling coalition, with the outcome in the south likely to be decided by the large bloc of undecided voters.
Questions over leadership and public trust
Public debate around the poll raised questions about whether voters could participate without a clear favourite for leader.
“A country in political upheaval – and a south that trusts no one.”
said an observer.
“Is this a sign of political maturity, or a warning that no figure inspires hope any more?”
said another commentator.
Further questions focused on the meaning of Abhisit’s lead in name recognition.
“Is Abhisit really the favourite – or just the last familiar name?”
said a political analyst.
“Who can lead Thailand, and why?”
said a commentator, reflecting the uncertainty emerging from the survey results.