One would have expected different issues to be raised by different political parties, but it is surprising to note that the whole issue of elections revolves around one man — Thaksin, who has been banned from Thai politics and does not even stay in the country. The question is whether you like him or not. Those who like him are likely to vote for the PPP; those opposed to him will vote for other parties, of which the Democratic Party leads the race.

Polls conducted so far have shown the PPP leading the race, followed by the Democratic Party, but neither of them is likely to win a majority of the seats. This is similar to what we have witnessed in Indian national elections over the last couple of decades.

From general impressions and the polls it is clear that the PPP is the frontrunner, but the question is how is the PPP likely to get support among the Thai people despite being perceived as close to a man seen as corrupt.

Thaksin had been charged of emptying the public exchequer and evading huge amounts in taxes. His family sold its shares in Shin Crop, the telecom empire he founded, to a Singaporean firm for tax-free $ 1.9 billion. Critics charge him with selling a national asset to foreign government. So why should people like to vote for a party he seems to support.

The puzzle resolves somewhat when we look a little deeper. What is clear from observations is that, at least in the forthcoming elections, there is class divide too, running between rural and urban voters.

... contd.