Anutin claims election victory

BANGKOK, Feb 9 (TNA) - After preliminary results show Bhumjaithai Party’s decisive win in Thailand election, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says it is the victory of all Thai people and his party will heed “people’s command.”

Anutin claimed the victory in the country’s parliamentary elections after unofficial results showed Bhumjaithai Party winning 194 seats, compared with 115 by the reformist People’s Party which comes in second.

At third place is Pheu Thai Party of the influential Shinawatra family, winning 77 seats.

During a press conference at his party headquarters in Bangkok Sunday night, Anutin thanked for all votes … the victory is of all Thais no matter whom you voted for.”

He regarded this victory as “people’s command” for Bhumjaithai to govern and bring about sustainable prosperity and stability.

Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the opposition People’s Party which was widely expected to win the election, meanwhile, conceded defeat.

“We reaffirmed our stance and followed the principle of respecting the party that finishes first and its right to form the government, he said.”

In his speech, Anutin refused to give any details or preferences on coalition formation as Bhumjaithai Party is in a good position to build a strong alliance in the House of Representatives of 500 members. -812 (TNA)