Thai snooker stars take a pot at national politics

Wattana Pu-Ob-Orm, the former world No.3 who once carried Thailand's hopes on the international snooker circuit, has announced his entry into politics.

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Better known to fans as James Wattana or “Tong Sitchoi,” the 50-year-old has joined the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party as a list MP candidate, appearing at No.48 on the party’s roster.

It is the first time Wattana has sought public office, a decision that has generated considerable interest both within the sporting community and beyond.

Wattana’s move into politics follows closely on the heels of another snooker veteran, Atthasit Mahitthi.

His candidacy comes ahead of Thailand’s general election, scheduled for Feb 8 next year, with the Election Commission having opened registration for party-list MPs at the end of December. Ruam Thai Sang Chart has drawn No.6 in the party-list lottery.

Wattana’s name is indelibly linked with the golden era of Thai snooker.