Election Commission to Deploy Professional Polling Station Managers for Bangkok, Bangkok Metropolitan Council, and Pattaya Elections

On April 29, 2025, at TK Palace and Convention Hotel, Election Commission Secretary Suwang Buamee announced preparations for simultaneous elections for Bangkok Governor, Bangkok Metropolitan Council members, and Pattaya Mayor on June 28, 2025. The Bangkok and Chonburi Election Commissions have begun implementing their plans without concerns, having coordinated with relevant agencies and incorporated lessons from previous parliamentary elections. The new model features professionally trained polling station managers to reduce errors and gain public acceptance, who will receive intensive training and possibly licensing certificates from the Election Commission, with enhanced protection measures for these officials.

Regarding criticism of Chonburi's Election Commission director during the previous Chonburi parliamentary election, Suwang acknowledged the highly competitive environment but insisted on fairness, noting legal proceedings are ongoing. Bangkok's director reported that 6,632 polling stations have been surveyed across 50 districts, an increase of 102 from parliamentary elections. The Bangkok governor and council members' terms expire May 21, 2025; either can resign early if necessary to allow simultaneous elections on June 28.

When asked about concerns regarding the election, officials noted they have been briefing candidates on campaign restrictions since November 21, 2024, the start of the 180-day pre-election period. Based on 70% turnout in parliamentary elections, Bangkok expects 75% voter participation in these local elections, as citizens typically show greater interest in local elections. Several parties have not submitted candidates, partly due to the one-year household registration requirement and other eligibility criteria.