On November 11, the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) of Ubon Ratchathani opened candidate registration for its upcoming election following the early resignation of long-standing PAO Chief Kanch Kaltinan, effective December 2024. The election will take place on December 22, with candidate registration scheduled from November 11 to 15.
Several candidates submitted their applications on the first day, drawing significant public attention. Former PAO Chief Kanch Kaltinan registered with support from key figures in the Pheu Thai Party, including MPs Kriang Kaltinan and Worawit Kaltinan. Shortly after, former MP Jittrawan Wangsuppakitkosol, representing the Thai Ruam Phalang Party, registered alongside party leader Wasawat Puangpornsri and MP Pimkan Plomsamran. Both candidates were greeted by large groups of supporters. Sittipol Laohavanich, running with the Prachachon Party, and independent candidate Athipthai Sui Srimongkhon also registered.
After registration, candidates drew their ballot numbers: Kanch secured number 1, Sittipol number 2, Jittrawan number 3, and Athipthai number 4. The local Election Commission stressed the importance of following campaign finance rules, with each candidate permitted a campaign budget of up to 9 million baht.
Candidate platforms highlight differing approaches to development in Ubon Ratchathani:
- Kanch Kaltinan emphasized his long-standing connection with the province and commitment to improving residents’ quality of life in education, healthcare, tourism, and infrastructure.
- Jittrawan Wangsuppakitkosol pledged a "3 Good" policy with a vision for a "Better Ubon," focusing on economic, healthcare, and educational enhancements. Addressing concerns of being an outsider, she reassured voters of her commitment to transparency and accountability.
With the campaign officially underway, all candidates expressed enthusiasm and confidence in bringing change and development to Ubon Ratchathani, urging voters to turn out in large numbers.