Former Bangkok Governor Helps Dr. Jo Campaign, Confident in Person-to-People Approach to Make Bangkok Better
Former Bangkok Governor Pichet Rattakul campaigned for Pheu Thai's Chaiyawat Sathavawichit on May 22, backing the young engineer's person-centered approach over relying on a single hero figure to lead the city.
On May 22, 2569 at Sai Mai Road, Chaiyawat Sathavawichit, the Pheu Thai Party's candidate for Bangkok Governor, campaigned alongside former Bangkok Governor Pichet Rattakul and former campaign aide Chadchart Sittipunt, former Bangkok Governor. They helped campaign for Patraporn Kengrungruongchai, a Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly candidate from the Bang Sue district, with support from Picharoen Chaowapatanawong, Pheu Thai's secretary-general.
Picket explained his reasons for supporting Chaiyawat, noting he finds Chaiyawat interesting and worth supporting as Bangkok Governor. Chaiyawat has attractive qualities as a young professional engineer with experience at the Bank of Thailand. As an engineer, he thinks in terms of construction and design rather than mere repairs.
Picket continued that beyond Chaiyawat's background, he appreciates the Pheu Thai Party's belief in decentralized power and teamwork without a single protagonist. He views this as crucial since Bangkok is too large a city to rely on one white-knight hero. The party also believes in public participation and strengthening local governance.
"These ideas align with my thinking, which is why I volunteered to help Chaiyawat's campaign. I'm only assisting with politics and won't accept any position since I'm elderly. I can only offer advice and support. I'll help Chaiyawat campaign for Bangkok Governor, though I may also assist other assembly candidates in my working group, most of whom are from the Pheu Thai Party," Pichet said.
When asked whether Bangkok residents prefer independent candidates or party candidates for governor, Pichet noted both have worked well. Past independent governors like Pol. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang and Chadchart performed excellently. Even party-backed candidates have had freedom to work, with parties providing support rather than controlling them.
When asked if he had spoken with Chadchart, Pichet said no. In the previous election, he supported Chadchart because of his good intentions. Once Chadchart became governor, Pichet returned his campaign materials and ended his involvement.
When asked if he had analyzed the strengths and weaknesses between Chaiyawat and Chadchart, Pichet said the public must decide. He wouldn't presume to guide them, as voters are the best judges.
Chaiyawat expressed confidence in his bid as Bangkok Governor following Chadchart's announcement of re-running, saying he doesn't expect things to change and his position isn't about opposing anyone.
