SAPM Talk Ep.8 Unveiling the Visions of Bangkok Governor Candidates

This Bangkok gubernatorial election is a highly anticipated political arena, as each candidate presents diverse ideas, policies, and visions for urban development. SAP Talk Ep. 8 invites you to explore the visions of six Bangkok gubernatorial candidates:

Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit (People's Party), Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri (Democrat Party), Mr. Pasapong Chaiwirinwanich (Bangkok Flying Group), Ms. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk (Friends of Mallika Group), Pol. Gen. Charntep Sesavej (Economic Party), and Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt (Independent Candidate). This episode allows the public to get to know each candidate, their ideas, and their answers to key questions before making their decision on the next leader of the capital city. Why did you decide to run for Bangkok governor this time?

Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri stated that the Democrat Party has a process for selecting candidates, and he was given the opportunity by the party after they decided to nominate him as their candidate for Bangkok governor. He emphasized that this is not a personal candidacy. Previously, he served in the legislature as a Member of Parliament for three terms, and now he wants to focus on Bangkok. He affirmed that the policies he presents are implementable.

Ms. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk stated that the PM2.5 air pollution problem led her to run for Bangkok Governor to address it. This includes using technology to measure air pollution levels to manage the problem and improve the efficiency of citizens' lives.

Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt said that he has several issues he wants to solve. He worries about sleepless nights due to potential flooding from rain, as well as PM2.5 pollution, corruption, and the past BTS debt issue. Currently, we are reviewing each issue and considering policies that can address the people's needs.

Pol. Gen. Charntep Sesawet said that he has served the public from the grassroots level to the highest ranks, and his candidacy is aimed at serving the people.

Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit stated that he is concerned about the need to improve the infrastructure, including many unresolved issues. He emphasized the importance of a serious approach from the Bangkok governor to address these problems, including corruption.

Mr. Pasapong Chaiwirinwanich expressed disappointment with the recurring problems that previous Bangkok governors failed to solve, and therefore he is running for office to improve the situation.

How do you view the current situation where some people still choose candidates based on individuals rather than policies?

Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri stated that candidates not affiliated with a party may have both advantages and disadvantages, but candidates from political parties have the advantage of having policies that have been carefully considered by the party. Furthermore, fielding candidates for all 50 Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMA) districts allows for a better understanding of local issues.

Ms. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk said that if choosing a candidate, one should select someone trustworthy. The easiest thing to change is the person, not the methods, procedures, or laws. Choosing a leader is crucial. She believes that Bangkok, while civilized, is still protected by a mafia system. She thinks that if Bangkok continues to have these accumulated problems, it will not be able to achieve the same level of prosperity and development as other civilized cities in other countries.

Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt said that he always emphasizes policies because individuals come and go, and mere rhetoric is unreliable. Policies, however, have measurable indicators and are like the heart of the matter, capable of bringing about real change.

Pol. Gen. Charntep Sesavej stated that policies are only one part of the equation. However, most policies are just empty words. Sometimes, past policies may not have improved things in the present. I believe in individuals more because their abilities and actions speak for themselves.

Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit stated that besides considering individuals, solving problems in Bangkok cannot be achieved solely by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Individuals are crucial in driving solutions.

Mr. Pasapong Chaiwirinwanich said that while older generations might focus on individuals, younger generations can adapt to social trends. They are interested in tangible policies, not just those based on individuals. He has good policies for different age groups but encourages people to study them before making a choice.

How will they work with Bangkok City Council members from different political parties and independent candidates?

Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri said that if the public elects many council members from the Democrat Party, he won't be worried. However, if they are from different political parties, discussions on each project will take considerable time. However, if they come from the same political party, they can work on each assigned area of responsibility.

Ms. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk said that she believes that no matter where they come from, they have the same goal: to make the people happy and benefit them and to successfully complete their mission together. She doesn't think that dividing into factions will become a major obstacle to doing good for the people.

Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt said that there is no problem, and he believes that if someone is elected by the people, they will prioritize the people's interests. If they can explain their actions in the people's best interests, there will be no problem.

Pol. Gen. Charntep Sesavej said that during his previous term, he had coordinated with various agencies. This time, he wants the public to have confidence that he can work with other parties and move in the same direction.

Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit said that working with political parties is not a problem because, for him, the people's interests are paramount. However, if the Bangkok Governor and Bangkok City Council members are from a political party, they will work in the same direction.

Mr. Pasapong Chaiwirinwanich said that it is not an obstacle, but he wants Bangkok City Council members to be independent because the more independent they are, the less corruption will occur.

How do we get people to vote for you?

Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri said, "If we choose someone to represent us as the Bangkok governor, don't choose based solely on likes or feelings. Choose based on what that person offers. This will show that they are not just fulfilling their duties, but that they are responsible to the organization, to Bangkok, and to the people."

Ms. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk said, "If you want to vote, then vote. Ultimately, the people have their own feelings and opinions. You can't force someone to vote for someone else. But you have to ask yourself, 'Is your life better now?' If not, then choose someone new."

Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt said, "Don't forget June 28th, 2026. Go to the polling station to give a mandate to the new Bangkok governor so they can benefit the people."

Pol. Gen. Charntep Sesavej said, "I pledge to work for the entire year, 12 months, for the people and to ensure their well-being. I want to see improved traffic, better waste management, and better flood control."

Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit said, "It's up to the people to choose what kind of Bangkok they want." Because there are Bangkok governors who prioritize the will and interests of the people and those whose political system is swayed by the bureaucracy.

Mr. Phasapong Chaiwirinwanich stated that this is a matter of personal rights and it's impossible to persuade or change anyone. However, he wants to see change in Bangkok and doesn't want the public to endure the same old problems, such as recurring flooding. He added that if he were to become Bangkok governor, there would definitely be change.