BANGKOK — Junta chairman Prayuth Chan-ocha will help campaign for the party that nominated him to become the next prime minister, a party official said Monday.
Phalang Pracharat Party member Wirat Rattanaset said the junta leader would take to the stage March 10 at a rally in Nakhon Ratchasima province, where he will be joined by other party leaders and MP candidates.
Wirat told the media he expected at least 50,000 people to flock to the rally and hear what Prayuth has to say. He added that the general would likely take the stage at about 5:30pm.
The confirmation came days after the Election Commission ruled Prayuth can campaign and canvass for votes on behalf of Phalang Pracharat Party despite his status as the prime minister. The news incensed opponents of the junta, who accuse the regime of abusing government power for their own gain.
The commission also allowed Prayuth to join a televised debate with candidates from other parties, but the junta leader has repeatedly turned down invitations to such events.