Criteria for Selecting the Representatives of Local Elections in Khon Kaen Province.

Abstract

This survey research analyzed the opinions of the population and criteria for considering candidates for local elections, anticipated to take place in 2020. This survey collected data from 384 members of the Khon Kaen population using multi-stage sampling and a structured questionnaire. 

          This study found that the respondents feel that local elections are one way to change society for the better and accelerate development of the locality. Fully 87.7% would like to see local elections held soon. That is because they see elections as the responsibility of a democracy, and they would like to participate in the political process (54.9%). The respondents also feel that free and fair elections help to produce positive change in the lives and livelihoods of the population (35.3%). This sample of the Khon Kaen population feel that candidates for elected office should have demonstrated some ability and track record of achieving good results and genuinely care for their constituency (37.8%). Also, important is the vision and proposed policies of the candidate (33.8%).  These findings show that the Khon Kaen population reject the notion of vote-buying or selling their vote (as occurred in the past). What is more, nearly all (97.9%) reported that they intend to vote in the next round of elections.