Mahachon candidate on a different path to success

Travelling around the country for her TV programme made Chomphoonut Chayutta-phong aware of the people’s suffering. So when the opportunity arose, she didn’t hesitate to jump into politics.

Mahachon Party leader Anek Laothamatas recently approached the well-known TV host with the offer to serve as party deputy spokesperson and run for the Pathum Wan constituency.

Chompoonut is running against incumbent Prajuab Ungparkorn, as well as high-profile Democrat challenger Kobsak Subhawasu.

Chomphoonut, 39, is better known as host for the popular iTV programme “Su Khwan Sum Rej” [To Success].

Chomphoonut found herself inspired by the Mahachon leader’s progressive welfare policies, which she believes are an effective way of addressing the nation’s problems.

“Mahachon is a good pick for people,” she confidently told The Nation. Chomphoo-nut sees hope for the country’s politics as this election is an era where every party is running on a policy basis rather than attacking each other as in the past.

The former host is urgently concerned for her potential constituents’ safety, especially during the night, as the Pathum Wan community does not have enough streetlights. If elected, she says she will cooperate with the relevant authorities to immediately tackle this problem.

“I believe my experience and strong determination are enough to serve the people and the country,” she said.

Chomphoonut claims her years as a well-known TV host did not give her any advantage in wooing more supporters.

“I don’t think it made me work less than other candidates. Actually, I think I have to work even harder because I am very new to the race and the community,” said Chomphoonut.

Like other candidates, Chomphoonut has to walk through the community, introduce herself to the residents, as well as participate in many community activities.

If she loses on February 6, she says she will still serve Mahachon as its deputy spokesperson, and return to television.

Nattawut Po-pum
The Nation