Election Commission clarifies that Bangkok Governor must remain in office until successor takes over upon term expiration
The Election Commission clarified that Bangkok Governors must remain in office until their successor takes over upon term expiration, unlike other local administrations where deputies automatically assume control during vacancies.
On May 14, the Election Commission (EC) clarified procedures for Bangkok Governor succession. When a Bangkok Governor completes their term in office, they must remain in position until the newly elected governor assumes duty. However, if the governor vacates the position for reasons other than term expiration—such as resignation—the Bangkok Deputy Governor will serve as acting governor until a new governor officially takes office. This arrangement complies with Section 54 of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Act B.E. 2528 and its amendments. The EC noted that Bangkok's governance structure differs from other local administrative organizations like provincial administrations, municipalities, and subdistrict administrations, which automatically transfer authority to their deputy administrators when leadership vacancies occur.