Abstract:
This qualitative political economy and governance research aims to study: 1. The factors influencing the adaptation of the Khunpluem family after the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) seized power, revealing that 1.1 the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), 1.2 the death of Mr.Somchai Khunpluem (Kamnan Poh), which destabilised the political power structure, 1.3 the emergence of the new generation groups and social media, and 1.4 the formation of the Future Forward Party were significant factors; and 2. The adaptation process of the Khunpluem family after the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) seized power, revealing that the family 2.1 left Palang Chon Party and joined Palang Pracharath Party, 2.2 prioritised local politics over national politics, and 2.3 placed importance on new generation groups and social media. Nonetheless, the "Khunpluem Family" still adheres to and propagates their traditional mindset by reproducing familiar images. For instance, they continue organising events like the Bangsaen Grand Prix, Chonburi Marathon, and the annual buffalo racing festival to stimulate the local economy and leave a positive impression among the local businesspeople. Additionally, they maintain long-standing practices like attending funerals, weddings, and various other ceremonies. The family also perpetuates the same thought patterns by using the memorable image of Mr. Somchai Khunpluem (Kamnan Poh) and employing stickers with slogans like "We Love Kamnan Poh," "We Love Khunpluem," "We Love Chonburi," and "We Love Pattaya" to reinforce affection and loyalty, ensuring the preservation of their faction's power structure.