Economist Party Set to Unveil Big Ch., Former Renowned Police Chief, as Bangkok Governor Candidate
The Economist Party is set to field former National Police Commissioner Chaiyathep Saesaewetch as its Bangkok governor candidate, shifting focus from initially-discussed rival Big J., with backing from his influential classmate still report
The Economist Party is making clearer moves to field a candidate for Bangkok Governor, with political circles buzzing about the party's plan to launch a prominent police figure into the capital's election race. Previously, attention focused heavily on Big J., a retired senior police officer considered a potential key player in the Bangkok gubernatorial contest. However, recent high-level party sources reveal a strategic shift, with Big Ch., a former Police Chief who has prior political experience and strong ties within senior police networks, emerging as the likely candidate instead. Sources indicate Big Ch.'s appearance is no coincidence but the result of internal discussions, with backing from Big J., his peer and classmate, remaining in play despite Big J. not running himself. "Initially, outsiders focused on Big J., but the party's actual trump card may be different," sources said. "Big Ch. has civil service experience, political background, and an extraordinary network. Support from classmate Big J. hasn't disappeared." Big Ch. is a well-known retired senior police officer who held important positions in Bangkok before transitioning into politics after retirement, making him seen as having administrative credentials, security expertise, and political acumen combined. Big J., initially mentioned, is Big Ch.'s classmate and continues to be watched as potentially playing an indirect supporting role in the Economist Party's Bangkok strategy this time. Political observers have noted that the Economist Party may be employing a misdirection tactic, allowing speculation to flow toward one name before revealing its true candidate at the opportune moment for maximum political impact. To date, the Economist Party has made no official announcement of its Bangkok Governor candidate, though party sources confirm discussions are near finalization. If nothing changes, Big Ch.'s name could become major political news for the capital in the coming period. Big Ch. is believed to be Pol. Lt. Gen. Chaiyathep Saesaewetch, former National Police Commissioner and former Thai Loyalty Party secretary.
