THE POLITICAL’S PARTICIPATION OF PEOPLE IN LOCAL ADMINISTRATION, SALAMEECHAI COMMUNITY, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to study: 1) The level of political participation of the people in local governance in the Sala Mee Chai community, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, and 2) Recommendations on guidelines for promoting political participation of the people in local governance in the Sala Mee Chai community, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative research collected data through questionnaires from a population of 1,189 people, with a sample size of 291. The qualitative research collected data through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 10 key informants. Data were analyzed using content analysis techniques. The findings revealed that: 1) The overall level of political participation of the people in local governance in the Sala Mee Chai community, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, was at a moderate level, with a mean score of ( = 3.97). 2) Recommendations for promoting political participation of the people in the Sala Mee Chai community, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, cover three key aspects: 2.1) Electoral participation - emphasizing the provision of knowledge regarding citizens’ rights and duties through accessible media, ensuring equal opportunities for all to exercise their rights. 2.2) Participation in political activities - focusing on creating spaces for all groups of people to engage, especially youth and individuals with time constraints. 2.3) Practical participation - encouraging citizens to play an active role in monitoring, providing suggestions, and co-planning local projects through face-to-face forums, online platforms, and incentive mechanisms