"Chadchart" Signals High Likelihood of Running for a Second Term as Bangkok Governor

Today (7 May 2026), 1:00 PM at Bangkok City Hall, Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, gave an interview regarding his decision to run for a second term as Bangkok governor. He stated that the likelihood of continuing is high but asked for patience until an official announcement. He emphasized that as governor, he is currently doing his best. He will announce the date when his term ends. He frankly stated that there is a high chance of continuing with his current team, but future plans will be discussed later. Regarding who will be his advisors, he said it's uncertain and depends on who is suitable at the time.

Mr. Chatchart added that the fact that some parties have already announced their candidacies, whether late or after, has no effect on him. He said there's no need to worry about it, as he is still receiving his salary. As the current Bangkok governor, I must focus on the present. Everyone involved receives a salary as a civil servant. It's good to see so many talented people coming forward; this will help generate new ideas and stimulate interest. This is a crucial aspect of democracy; having multiple choices is essential.

Regarding the assessment of a landslide victory, Mr. Chatchart stated, "There's no way there will be a landslide. In the last election, the People's Party was strong, winning all the Bangkok seats. They still have popularity. I'm not thinking about a landslide. If we run again, it will be a fierce battle. We have to do our best. I don't think there's a chance of a landslide because there are many factors. A landslide is impossible; it's very difficult."

As for what strategies he would use to counter the People's Party in the Bangkok campaign, Mr. Chatchart said, "It's alright. We have a track record. If they like our work, they'll vote for us. If they don't like our work, they won't. It's clear that we've worked for four years, and there are people who like us and people who don't. Being in office isn't that difficult. In one sense, if we run again, we have to consider what we can do to improve and how we can ensure continued development."

When asked about the People's Party's assessment that the Bangkok campaign would be difficult due to Mr. Chatchart's already strong performance, Mr. Chatchart declined to comment. "If you say it's difficult, I think the People's Party is making it difficult for us too, because they have a very strong support base in Bangkok. That's good, though. If it's difficult, we can work to our fullest potential. That's important. I respect the people's decision. Elections aren't boxing matches but are about offering the best to the people. We don't see others as enemies or competitors; we just do our best," Mr. Chatchart said.

Mr. Chatchart added, "If they have a good idea, or if they have something promising, and we get back in the future, we might use their ideas. Or if our own good policies are used by others even if we don't get anything back, we're happy for that, because it will benefit the country. The atmosphere isn't stressful at all. We don't have any burdens to bear; we're independent. We don't need to win for anything, but we offer the best. We'll see what happens next."

Regarding confidence, Mr. Chatchart said, "I'm not really confident. If we were confident, it would mean we weren't listening to the people, because ultimately, it depends on the people. There's nothing to worry about, nothing to lose. We haven't invested anything; we haven't spent any money. Suppose in the future, we run and don't get back in; there's nothing to worry about. There are plenty of other options. Life goes on. We don't have any expectations."

When asked again if he still stands by his stance regarding not supporting any particular group of Bangkok City Council members, Mr. Chatchart stated that he currently has no affiliation with any specific group. He emphasized the importance of City Council members to the public, as they are the ones who help pass laws and budgets. He wants City Council members who are good, qualified, transparent, honest, and work for the people, not seeking personal gain or abusing their power. He urged everyone to help with this.

Mr. Chatchart reiterated that he is not affiliated with any particular party, as he believes many current City Council members are good people and perform their duties well. He wants them to continue serving, and while he may support multiple parties, not just one, he ultimately allows the public to choose. He added that in the future, if he were to run again and a particular city council member he believes works well emerged, he might publicly endorse them. He stressed that he is not currently focusing on specific parties.

Finally, Mr. Chatchart reiterated that the key to future development is bringing appropriate technology to improve the city. To achieve maximum efficiency, the capillaries have become stronger, and the public has noticed this because they are part of their daily lives. However, everything must work together, just like our bodies; we can't have only capillaries; we'll die. Both must be strong to function together.

Photo : Yanawut Samphaothong