The upcoming gubernatorial race in Bangkok is shaping up to be highly competitive, with the main opposition party poised to leverage its recent electoral success. The People’s Party (PP) has officially declared its intention to contest the governorship, citing a strong foothold in the capital.
In the 2023 general elections, the PP secured 32 out of 33 available parliamentary seats in Bangkok, surprising many observers and solidifying its political brand.
The party’s strategic campaign targeted young, tech-savvy voters through effective messaging, addressing urban reform issues that resonate strongly with this demographic.
Despite the momentum, past setbacks in provincial races have left some supporters questioning the party’s viability in the next general election, scheduled for 2027, prompting calls for a decisive “return match” to gauge its standing.
As the current governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, nears the end of his term, the PP aims to capitalize on this opportunity to contest for the governorship.
However, Governor Chadchart’s potential re-election bid has sparked speculation. His recent focus on showcasing achievements—including the successful removal of Lao Market, which had long obstructed a key thoroughfare—suggests he is positioning himself favorably for voters ahead of the election.
Chadchart’s prior victory as an independent candidate in 2022, where he received over 1.3 million votes, cemented his status as a formidable opponent for the PP should he run again.
The PP, now under the leadership of Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, is gearing up to challenge Chadchart, asserting that effective governance doesn’t strictly require holding the executive branch.
Natthaphong emphasized that the current government’s internal conflicts illustrate that mere power does not equate to successful governance, citing the coalition’s inefficacies.
“In the coming year, we will continue to develop policies tailored for the people of Bangkok,” Natthaphong stated, unveiling the PP’s “3 Real” strategy aimed at addressing real situations faced by real residents.
Through its “Hackable Bangkok 2026” initiative, the party encourages community involvement and has poised multiple high-caliber candidates for potential city leadership roles.
Moreover, the PP is committed to addressing pressing issues, particularly PM2.5 microdust pollution, which poses severe health risks to residents. Recognizing the urgent need for action, party members advocate for the establishment of dust-free zones to combat this growing concern.
“We must tackle the root causes to ensure clean air for the people,” said Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, a key strategist for the PP.
The party insists that the gubernatorial election will hinge on policies over personalities, with voters expected to prioritize effective solutions that address their concerns.
Investigations Stir Political Waters
In a significant development, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has decided to probe allegations of money laundering tied to last year’s Senate elections, with claims of over 300 million baht spent improperly coming to light.
This investigation has drawn attention to potential infringements of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, while intentionally avoiding deeper accusations of criminal associations that could threaten national stability.
Justice Minister Pol Col Tawee Sodsong confirmed that evidence implicates at least 20 senators linked to these irregularities, while the DSI collaborates with the Election Commission to address the issue effectively.
Observers indicate that the limited scope of the investigation may reflect a political compromise aimed at maintaining harmony within the ruling coalition, particularly considering the tensions surrounding the so-called “blue faction” associated with Bhumjaithai Party members.
Political analysts contend that the DSI’s focus on money laundering enables the EC to regain credibility while sidestepping a more rigorous investigation that could exacerbate partisan divides.
With future negotiations anticipated between coalition partners regarding key appointments and legislation, the resolution of these issues is likely to shape the political landscape moving forward.
