FACTORS AFFECTING LOCAL ELECTION VOTING OF PEOPLE AT NIKOM PHATANA DISTRICT, RAYONG PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article has three objectives: 1. to study the level of political participation among citizens, 2. to examine the relationship between the Iddhipada 4 and political participation among citizens, and 3. To apply Buddhist principles to promote political participation among the citizens of Nikhom Phatthana District, Rayong Province, conducted by the mixed research methods. The quantitative research and data were collected with questionnaires and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and correlation coefficient. For the qualitative research, data was collected from nine key informants through in-depth interviews and analyzed by descriptive interpretation.

The results revealed that: 1. the overall level of political participation among citizens was high; 2. the relationship between Iddhipada 4, Four Bases of Success, and political participation were moderately positive; and 3. The application of Iddhipada 4 to promote political participation among the citizens of Nikhom Phatthana District, Rayong Province, showed high levels of participation in all aspects. Specifically, Citta concentration was evident as citizens were determined to study policies before selecting representatives, focusing on solutions that benefited all parties. Viriya, effort, was shown as citizens chosen representatives based on knowledge and capability without being attached to individuals. Vimamsa, investigation, involved citizens actively monitoring and evaluating the performance of politicians. Lastly, Chanda, aspiration, was evident in citizens willingly participating in elections in accordance with the constitution.