The Election Commission is ready to hold the Bangkok governor, Bangkok council, and Pattaya mayor elections on 28 June. Professional local election officers (LEOs) will be used to reduce errors. According to the Director of the Bangkok Election Commission Office, there are 6,632 polling stations in Bangkok, which is 102 more than in the recent general election. The target voter turnout is 75%. The requirement for candidates to be registered residents for one year is a major factor causing political parties to miss submitting candidates.
On 29 Apr 2026 at 09:30 at TK Palace Hotel and Convention, Mr. Sa-wang Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission (EC), discussed preparations for the simultaneous election of the Bangkok governor, Bangkok council members, and Pattaya mayor on 28 Jun 2026. He stated that the EC offices in Bangkok and Chonburi have begun implementing plans and have no major concerns. They have coordinated with relevant agencies to prepare for all steps, incorporating lessons learned from the previous general election. This will be a new model election using professional local election officers (LEOs) trained intensively by the EC to ensure accuracy and acceptance. Those selected as LEOs will undergo rigorous training and may receive official licenses. Additional measures will protect LEOs from adverse impacts.
Regarding rumors that the Director of the Chonburi EC office lacks local public acceptance due to the Chonburi 1st district general election, Mr. Sa-wang acknowledged that Chonburi is a highly competitive area. Although complaints have been filed by the public, fairness must be given to the director. Progress on the case is proceeding according to legal procedures.
Lieutenant Commander Sampan Saengkamlert, Director of the Bangkok Election Commission Office, said the Bangkok EC has completed the polling station survey. Bangkok is divided into 50 constituencies with 6,632 polling stations, 102 more than the recent general election. The office is currently preparing to select local election officers (LEOs) for Bangkok and has submitted names to the EC for approval and appointment.
Lieutenant Commander Sampan added that publicity about the expiry of terms for the governor and council members will begin on 21 May. According to the governing law, the governor can serve as acting governor. Whether to resign before the election is up to the individual; the EC only provides information. If necessary, resignation may occur to enable simultaneous elections. The EC has approved holding elections on 28 June alongside Pattaya.
When asked about rumors that Governor Chadchart Sittipunt will resign, Lieutenant Commander Sampan said he has only heard such rumors. No official resignation has been submitted yet. If he does resign, it must be filed officially with the Ministry of Interior.
Asked about concerns for the election, Lieutenant Commander Sampan said the Bangkok EC has rehearsed restrictions on campaigning since 180 days before the term ends, starting 21 Nov 2025. They have informed some candidates and interested parties. Regarding expected voter turnout, based on the recent general election's 70% turnout, they anticipate 75% participation for this local election, as citizens tend to be more engaged in local elections.
When asked why the election seems less heated due to many parties not fielding candidates, Lieutenant Commander Sampan explained that the requirement for candidates to have been registered residents for one year as of the application date disqualifies some. The condition to submit three years of past tax returns is merely for disclosure and is not a disqualifying factor.
Regarding the new model for appointing professional LEOs, Lieutenant Commander Sampan said the central EC has met to organize this. Starting with 6,632 individuals, each will be the chairperson of a polling station in Bangkok. On 1 May, the Bangkok permanent secretary, who will become the local election director, is scheduled to meet and prepare for training one professional LEO per station. For this election, each polling station will have nine LEOs and two police officers, totaling over 70,000 personnel.
Asked if there are concerns about cooperation given past social pressures on LEOs, Lieutenant Commander Sampan said he is not worried. The LEOs understand the election environment includes some pressure and minor tensions. Most LEOs have prior experience, some serving 10 to 20 years, and are knowledgeable. Any mistakes are noted and addressed for improvement. Teachers and educators remain ready to serve as LEOs.