'Joe Chaiwat' Resigns to Run for Governor Paving Way for 'Petch Karunpon' to Join Parliament

On May 6, 2026, Mr. Chaiwat Sathawornwichit, or Dr. Joe, a List MP and Deputy Leader of the People's Party, arrived to submit his resignation letter as an MP to the Correspondence Division. This move is to prepare for his candidacy in the Bangkok Gubernatorial Election.

Mr. Chaiwat stated that he came today to process his resignation documents according to the procedure. Regarding whether he felt regret, he described it as a dual feeling: he feels regret because he is an MP, but he also feels that a new door is opening for the opportunities of Bangkok residents, as the People's Party places great importance on this Bangkok election.

Regarding Mr. Karunpon Tiansuwan, who will be elevated to the List MP position in his place, Mr. Chaiwat said there was no need for a specific message as they have known each other and worked together all along. He is very pleased that the Parliament will have Mr. Karunpon, and they have been in constant coordination. Even though he is leaving Parliament, the work will continue seamlessly because they work as a team with unity and cooperation

From the launch on May 5th, he spoke candidly that if there were no issues or complexities from the "44 MPs case," the person standing here might not be him, but rather Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, the former Bangkok gubernatorial candidate. However, since there is a case where the outcome remains unclear, the party felt that fielding Mr. Wiroj would be inappropriate due to several uncertainties.

Nevertheless, the People's Party expects victory and wishes to present an alternative. We want to demonstrate what kind of capital Bangkok can be—one that truly provides a good life for everyone. Therefore, I have volunteered to prove this intention.

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong