MAINTAINING POLITICAL POWER OF LOCAL LEADERS AT KHAO CHAKAN DISTRICT, SA KAEO PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research paper were: 1. To study the general condition; 2. To study the process of maintaining power, and 3. To present the approach to supporting the political power of local leaders by applying Buddha-dharma principles at Khao Chakan District, Sa Kaeo Province, conducted by the qualitative research, collecting data by in-depth-interviewing 18 key informants who were   Political Science Scholars, Local Politicians, Local government officials, Scholars of Buddha-dharma principles, purposefully selected. Data were analysed by content descriptive interpretation, synthesised information according to the research objectives, and presented in sequential essays.

Findings were as follows: General conditions regarding maintaining the political power of local leaders were: 1. The human aspect 2. Legal aspect 3. Kinship relations aspect 4. Political aspects. The process of maintaining the political power of local leaders was: 1. Building alliances in a group of people 2. Network expansion: Individuals or groups of networks could be supportive aides and gather allies to support. 3. The exercise of powers arising from the law or the appointment and exercise of expertise; The power of a local leader is a statutory authority arising from the fact that the local people exercised the right to vote directly to elect a person. 4. Data uses and analysis: the use of information to support communication, including the skills to analyse the information received and the skill to analyse the information, were necessary 5. Use of symbols: Local leaders used themselves as political symbols. 6. Use of commitment: Local leaders must demonstrate commitment to management. 3. Application of Sangahavatthu 4 to promote the maintaining of political power of local leaders, namely, 1. They were sacrificing for the benefit of other people, two and speaking with sweet, sweet words, 3. Behaving in a way that benefits others. 4. Non-discrimination by being fair and giving equality to all.