Dr. Chai Wattana Unveils Plan to Make Bangkok Easier Through Structural Reform and Expanded Authority
Democrat candidate Chai Wattanawichit unveiled a "Simple Bangkok" platform proposing structural reforms to expand the BMA's authority and address issues including healthcare access, public transportation, and canal development. His campaign
On May 8, 2025, Chai Wattanawichit, Thai Democrat Party candidate for Bangkok Governor, outlined his development plans during a campaign event focused on making Bangkok easier to navigate. His campaign, titled "Simple Bangkok," aims to challenge residents to question why managing the city feels so complicated, addressing issues like wasted commute time and poor quality of life.
The Democratic Party's platform, backed by all 50 party members in the Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly and the party leadership, proposes structural reforms through proposed amendments to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration law. The key change involves shifting from a "positive list" (specifying what the BMA can do) to a "negative list" (allowing everything except what is prohibited), giving Bangkok greater autonomy in managing its own affairs.
Chai highlighted healthcare accessibility as a critical issue, noting that the number of residents able to access the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme has declined from 1 million to 800,000. He proposed expanding BMA-operated public health centers and coordinating with nine BMA hospitals to reduce referral delays.
Public transportation is another major focus. Chai pointed out that many new roads lack bus service while existing routes continue to shrink despite receiving permits from the Department of Land Transport. He emphasized that the BMA has the authority to expand services but has failed to act adequately.
For his mega-project vision, Chai proposed developing Bangkok's numerous canals into multipurpose corridors serving as public transportation routes, tourist attractions, and community spaces. This canal development strategy aims to generate economic benefits across the entire city.
Chain identified the Ong Nuch landfill odor problem as his top priority if elected. Affecting over 400,000 residents, this issue falls within the BMA's authority and can be addressed immediately. He also plans to tackle the gold card (royal health insurance) problem by leveraging BMA health centers to reduce referral paperwork and improve accessibility.
