PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE 2023 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTION IN CONSTITUENCY 1, NA PHO SUBDISTRICT, KUT RANG DISTRICT, MAHASARAKHAM PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: 1) to examine public participation in the election of members of the House of Representatives, and 2) to propose guidelines for addressing problems related to public participation in the 2023 General Election in Na Pho Sub-district, Kut Rang District, Mahasarakham Province. A qualitative research approach was employed, using in-depth interviews with five key informants, including government officials and local residents. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that most citizens participated in the election across four main dimensions. First, regarding knowledge and understanding of voting rights, most citizens voted because they considered it their legal duty, while also recognizing the importance of exercising their political rights. Second, in terms of information and news monitoring, citizens regularly received election-related information from government officials and through local leaders’ public relations efforts. Third, concerning motivation, voting decisions were influenced by political party policies, transparency, and candidate qualifications. Lastly, regarding expectations, citizens hoped the government would address economic issues, particularly the rising prices of agricultural products and the increasing cost of living. It is therefore recommended that political parties establish clear and practical policies, provide the public with comprehensive access to information through multiple communication channels, and create mechanisms that enable citizens to monitor, evaluate, and provide feedback on policies to promote transparency, accountability, and genuine political participation.