Bangkok Governor Election 2026: Chadchart Faces Voters as 'Fever' Fades

The Quiet Confidence at Muang Thai Phatra Fresh Market

With polling day just days away, former Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt spent Thursday morning at Muang Thai Phatra Fresh Market in the Huai Khwang district. He spoke with vendors and shoppers, reminding them to come out and vote on Sunday without directly asking for support for his Number 9 candidacy. His campaign team of about a dozen members handled those direct appeals while Chadchart focused on conversations about daily life in the capital.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt campaigns at Muang Thai Phatra Fresh Market in Huai Khwang district, days before the gubernatorial election. (Khaosod English)

After an interview with reporters including those from Khaosod English, Chadchart waited as market visitors took selfies with him. He even offered a selfie to the Khaosod English reporter, who declined to preserve the paper's impartiality. This scene unfolded amid the fresh produce stalls and small food vendors that represent the 55,000 small businesses Chadchart highlighted as essential to Bangkok's economy.

Why Turnout Remains a Concern for Bangkokians

Chadchart's team told Khaosod English they remain cautious about assuming victory. They worry Bangkok residents might skip voting on Sunday if they believe the outcome is already decided. This concern stems from the need to maintain strong participation across all districts, from Huai Khwang to older areas along Ratchadamnoen Avenue.

The emphasis on small businesses rather than large corporations reflects Chadchart's view that everyday vendors and traders form the backbone of local communities. Supporting these 55,000 enterprises means preserving the markets and street-level economy that Thai families rely on for fresh goods and income.

The Fading Chadchart Fever After Four Years

The intense enthusiasm seen during Chadchart's first campaign four years ago has largely disappeared. After time in office, he now faces criticism from other candidates on issues such as the annual PM2.5 micro-dust problem that affects Bangkok each year and reports of corruption among Bangkok City Hall officials.

One female reporter asked Chadchart how he was handling the "mud-slinging." He replied that such attacks are expected after four years in power and that he accepts earnest criticisms while remaining unaffected personally. This shift in atmosphere shows how governing brings both achievements and scrutiny to any Bangkok leader.

Addressing Corruption and Unfinished Tasks

When asked about failures in his first term, Chadchart described graft and corruption as unfinished work rather than outright failure. He noted that an anti-corruption group had given his administration a score of eight out of ten. He pledged to continue efforts if re-elected on Sunday.

Chadchart stated that more action is needed to strengthen oversight at City Hall. For Thai readers in Bangkok and beyond, this focus on integrity matters because corruption affects public trust in local government services from waste management to public transport across the city.

Progress on Homelessness Along Ratchadamnoen Avenue

Chadchart addressed questions about homeless people sleeping on footpaths, particularly in older parts of Bangkok such as along Ratchadamnoen Avenue. He reported that the number has dropped from 1,600 to 1,200 people. Thirty individuals have been retrained for jobs through city programs.

A care centre called Baan Im Jai has been set up, with plans for six more centres in different districts. Chadchart explained that current authority limits the city's ability to bring people in directly, requiring closer work with other agencies and new laws. These steps show gradual efforts to support vulnerable residents in central Bangkok areas.

Plans for a Second Term and Quality of Life

If re-elected, Chadchart said Bangkokians can expect better quality of life and higher productivity based on the 250 distinct plans his administration has prepared. He asked voters to trust these plans for improvements across the city.

The focus on productivity connects to everyday concerns such as cleaner air, reliable services, and economic opportunities for small traders. For communities in Huai Khwang and along historic routes like Ratchadamnoen Avenue, these plans aim to deliver practical changes rather than dramatic shifts.

What the Election Means for Bangkok and Southeast Asia

This Sunday's vote will shape how Bangkok addresses ongoing challenges like seasonal air quality issues and support for small businesses. Chadchart's approach of steady engagement at places like Muang Thai Phatra Fresh Market reflects a style that values direct contact with residents over high-energy rallies.

For Thai readers and those across Southeast Asia, the outcome influences regional models of urban governance. Bangkok's handling of homelessness, corruption oversight, and economic support for local markets offers lessons for other growing cities in the region facing similar pressures.

Chadchart's reduced number of homeless individuals and new care centres demonstrate targeted responses that could inform policies elsewhere. The emphasis on 55,000 small businesses also highlights the importance of protecting local economies amid larger corporate influences.

Looking Ahead to Sunday's Decision

As Bangkok prepares for the gubernatorial election on Sunday, the contrast between past excitement and current measured campaigning shows how four years in office changes public expectations. Chadchart's team continues to stress the need for strong turnout to confirm the direction of city leadership.

Voters will weigh the reported progress on homelessness and anti-corruption scores against remaining criticisms. The 250 plans for the next term represent a concrete roadmap that Chadchart presents as essential for improving daily life in the capital.

Source: Khaosod English — reporting from Bangkok's Huai Khwang district.