Abhisit Briefs 50 Bangkok Council Candidates; Hints at Governor Candidate Profile, Official Reveal on May 16
Democrat Party leader Abhisit briefed 50 Bangkok council candidates on May 11, confirming the party will reveal its gubernatorial candidate on May 16—a male figure under 60 with strong public profile who will challenge the incumbent governo
At 10:00 AM on May 11, 2025, at the Democrat Party headquarters, party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva briefed candidates ahead of a seminar for prospective Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) members. He explained that the seminar is standard procedure before the party submits candidates, featuring discussions on party framework operations, election laws, and related matters. The party completed candidate approvals for all BMC districts last week, prompting this gathering.
When asked if the gubernatorial candidate would attend, Abhisit stated that Sakolthee Pattiyakul, the party vice-leader overseeing Bangkok, announced the official reveal would occur on Saturday, May 16. He declined to disclose the candidate's identity but confirmed the candidate is male, well-known in society, and urged patience for the official announcement.
Regarding the formation of an administrative team including deputy governors and advisors, Abhisit said this was not immediate, though various experts stand ready to assist, with their official positions still under discussion.
When asked if the party's candidate can compete effectively, Abhisit emphasized the Democrats are fully committed, having a duty to offer Bangkok voters alternatives. The party has prepared candidates, policies, BMC candidates, and comprehensive organization.
Addressing public opinion surveys showing limited excitement about the gubernatorial race, Abhisit said voters will decide. Regarding current Governor Chadchart Sittipunt's self-rating of 5 out of 10, Abhisit suggested higher standards are possible. He noted many issues the Democrats could address if given opportunity, asking people to await May 16's announcement.
When asked whether a male candidate would compete against independent candidate Mallika Boonmetrattakul, Abhisit said it was unrelated.
Asked if the party's candidate would generate excitement upon reveal, Abhisit said he couldn't predict media reaction, but hinted the candidate is a young-generation figure under 60 with good appearance and strong profile, urging people to await the May 16 reveal.
Abhisit then opened a legal seminar for all 50 BMC candidates across districts, thanking them for volunteering. He explained that running under the Democrat Party differs from House candidates—BMC members work in local legislative oversight requiring specific ideology and principles. Party affiliation provides voters clarity on policy direction. While voters may have personal preferences, council members remain checks on administration.
"The party guarantees full work autonomy within the local council, while candidates can still consult the party, as the party framework helps advance party policies," Abhisit stated.
