South Dovani

[Zanz]

BREAKING: Pichai Drops Out of Presidential Race, Interior Minister Receives NEWP Endorsement

Udon Nakhon Post

1 March 5630

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President Pichai Woraphon, who has held the position since his election in 5622, announced on social media today that he is removing his name from consideration for reelection, casting the October contest into doubt with only months before voters head to polls.

The NEWP incumbent had been embattled since late January, when a disastrous debate appearance called Pichai's fitness into question. In the announcement, the 80 year old said that he hoped to spend more time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

The NEWP, for its part, faces a difficult challenge in holding on to the presidency. Interior Minister Jintana Worasith was announced by the party as Pichai's replacement. Jintana, a 44 year old rising star in the center left has much to do to build name recognition in the seven months until ballots are cast.

Insiders suggested that the NEWP had considered an endorsement of the PIE candidate in the first round, but felt that maintaining its own candidacy would be necessary to ensure it remained the senior party in an anticipated continuation of the NEWP-PIE legislative mandate in the coming general election next year.

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