It’s official, Bangkok to vote for governor in two months

Finally, Bangkok will choose the person to lead its government nine years after the last election.

The city will go to the polls on May 22, the Election Commission announced this afternoon. On the same date, Pattaya City will elect a new mayor.

Candidates may register to run March 31 to April 4.

The pool of likely candidates so far is commanded – according to polls – by former Pheu Thai Party Transport Minister Chadchart Sittipunt, who is expected to face off against Wiroj Lakkhana-adisorn of the opposition Move Forward Party, and Suchatvee Suwansawat of the old-guard Democrat Party. 

There has been no indication yet who will be the candidate for the ruling military proxy party, Palang Pracharath.

Deputy Bangkok Gov. Sakoltee Pattiyakul also has resigned from his post and will host a press conference on Thursday about his prospects in the race as an independent.

Current Gov. Aswin Kwanmuang was installed by the ruling junta after the previous elected governor was accused of corruption.