Bangkok Mayoral Election Countdown: Chadchart Leads with Over 60% Support Despite Controversies

(Central News reporter Li Zongxian, Bangkok, May 14) — The Bangkok mayoral election is set for May 28, and incumbent candidate Chadchart Sittipunt, despite being embroiled in controversies over personnel appointments and procurement, continues to lead all other candidates with over 60% support in the latest polls. He is widely expected to secure re-election.

According to a recent survey released by Suan Dusit University and reported by Thairath, independent candidate Chadchart Sittipunt received 60.08% support, far ahead of Chaiwat Satthaworawit from the People's Party, who garnered only 13.17%.

Another poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) showed Chadchart’s support at 67.3%, significantly outpacing his rivals.

The Bangkok mayoral election will be held on May 28. Former Bangkok Governor Chadchart officially resigned on May 18 to run for re-election.

As reported by the Bangkok Post, Chadchart is campaigning under the slogan 'Bangkok Works,' emphasizing policy continuity, including improvements to sidewalks, bike lanes, flood prevention, environmental management, and expanding service capacity at municipal hospitals.

Additionally, Chadchart has pledged that if re-elected, he will push for amendments to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Act to enhance the city government’s authority, granting greater autonomy in transportation, public infrastructure, and urban governance.

Chadchart won the 2022 Bangkok mayoral election with a majority vote—the first such election since the 2014 coup—earning widespread popularity.

However, he has recently faced criticism over allegations of improper influence in senior government appointments and procurement of fitness equipment by the city administration.

In recent interviews, Chadchart welcomed investigations, stating that corruption is 'the thing I detest most,' and that any abuse of power for personal gain is unacceptable.

Analysts suggest the current controversies have had limited impact on his campaign. Polls consistently show that most voters still approve of his performance over the past four years.

In a February interview with Central News, Chadchart praised Taipei as an ideal urban model, noting that Bangkok and Taipei share similar cultures, lifestyles, and industrial structures, and that Taiwan’s experience in digital governance and urban management is worth emulating. (Edited by Zhang Zhixuan) 1150614