Chatchart Sittipunt Encourages High Voter Turnout in Bangkok Elections

Bangkok: Chatchart Sittipunt, a candidate in the Bangkok gubernatorial elections, urged residents to exercise their voting rights with an 80% turnout, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process. He asserted that winning or losing should not halt life's progress.

According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere surrounding the Bangkok gubernatorial and Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMA) elections was lively on June 28, 2026. Mr. Chatchart cycled to polling station 26 in Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, at Jamchan School, to cast his vote. He arrived early, aiming to be one of the first voters for good luck. Accompanied by his son, Mr. Saenpiti Sittiphan, he expressed excitement despite exhaustion from campaigning non-stop for 24 hours, which even caused him leg cramps. Despite an early awakening at 1 AM, he managed to go for a run at Benjakitti Park at 5 AM.

Mr. Chatchart shared his increased confidence in this election compared to four years ago, attributing it to a demonstrated track record of achievements during his previous term. He acknowledged feeling nervous but maintained that life continues irrespective of election outcomes. He emphasized that whether he continues as governor or assumes another role, significant work lies ahead.

At 8:00 AM, the polls officially opened, and Mr. Chatchart entered the polling booth, casting his vote as the second person at his polling station. He was listed as number 240 on the voter list.

After voting, Mr. Chatchart highlighted the favorable weather conditions and encouraged Bangkok residents to vote early, warning of potential afternoon rain that might hinder travel. He aims for a voter turnout exceeding 80%, compared to around 60% in the previous election, to provide the new Governor and City Council members a robust mandate. He advised voters to be cautious with their ballots to avoid invalidation, noting the two ballot colors: green for the Bangkok Governor election and pink for City Council members.