Developing Public Political Participation in the General Election in Nong Bua Lamphu Province

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate: 1) problems and obstacles, and to propose guidelines for enhancing political participation; 2) levels of political participation; 3) factors influencing political participation; and 4) factors affecting political participation. The sample consisted of 400 individuals aged 18 years and above residing in Nong Bua Lamphu Province, selected using Yamane’s formula. Additionally, 20 key informants were purposively chosen. Data collection tools included questionnaires and structured interviews. Statistical analyses employed frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Hypotheses were tested using stepwise multiple regression analysis.

The research findings indicated that

1. The people of Nong Bua Lamphu Province place great importance on their voting rights and believe that every vote can bring about change. Despite obstacles related to access to information, economic conditions, patronage systems, fake news, and the impacts of the pandemic, they still view elections as an important mechanism for local development. Therefore, political participation should be promoted through civic education, improved access to information, prevention of vote-buying, and the establishment of a transparent, equitable, and accessible electoral system for all citizens.


2. Overall, the level of people’s political participation in the general election in Nong Bua Lamphu Province was found to be high ( = 3.93, S.D. = 0.31). When considering each aspect, the highest mean score was in evaluation participation ( = 4.62, S.D. = 0.32), followed by participation in receiving benefits ( = 3.85, S.D. = 0.46). The aspect with the lowest mean score was operational participation ( = 3.62, S.D. = 0.60).


3. Overall, the factors influencing public political participation in the general election in Nong Bua Lamphu Province were found to be at a high level ( = 3.99, S.D. = 0.28). When considering each aspect, the highest mean score was political party membership ( = 4.55, S.D. = 0.36), followed by participation in political rallies ( = 4.25, S.D. = 0.49). The aspect with the lowest mean score was participation in political activities with political parties and various political groups ( = 3.63, S.D. = 0.58).


4. The analysis of factors affecting political participation in general elections among the citizens of Nong Bua Lamphu Province revealed that political discussion (X3), contact with politicians (X5), participation in political gatherings (X6), voting and election campaigning (X2), participation in political activities organized by parties and various political groups (X4), and party membership enrollment (X7) all have an influence on political participation (Y) at 93.60%.