Recent polling indicates a strong preference among Bangkok residents for independent candidates in the upcoming gubernatorial and city council elections. Data collected from a survey of 1,310 voters on Thursday reveals that a significant majority, 64.92%, favor non-partisan contenders for the city’s top job. In contrast, only 16.88% expressed support for candidates nominated by political parties.
City Council Elections Mirror Gubernatorial Trend
A similar sentiment is evident in the race for the city council. Across Bangkok’s 50 districts, independent candidates are favored by 48.47% of voters. Party-affiliated candidates, by comparison, are supported by 32.21% of those surveyed. The number of undecided voters in both elections remains low, with less than 7% in each category yet to make a decision.
Election Details and Candidate Landscape
The elections for both the Bangkok governor and city council are scheduled for Sunday, June 28. The gubernatorial race currently features 16 individuals vying for the position. Of these, three are officially backed by political parties, according to the latest figures from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. For the 50 seats on the city council, a total of 249 candidates have registered. Monday marks the final day for candidate registrations.
Incumbent Governor Leads Polls as Independent
The current governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, who previously served as a Pheu Thai politician, is seeking re-election as an independent. He currently holds a leading position in surveys conducted by two polling organizations, the National Institute of Development and Administration (Nida) and King Prajadhipok’s Institute.
