Sakolthee revealed that this evening the Democrat Party will announce candidates for all 50 Bangkok Council districts, confident of securing several seats. He also hinted at adding a Bangkok governor candidate who is a businessman, deciding to run because of Abhisit.
At 11:00 AM on 5 May 2026, Sakolthee Phattiyakul, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the Democrat Party responsible for Bangkok, updated on the selection of Bangkok Council (BMC) members. Previously, 45 council candidates had been approved, and earlier today the selection committee reviewed the remaining five districts: Sai Mai, Bang Khen, Dusit, Nong Khaem, and Bang Na. The party will announce all 50 council candidates after the party executive meeting at 4:00 PM today. The Democrat Party currently holds 12-13 council seats, and among the 50 candidates are former Democrat council members who performed well in the last election, as well as some from the Pheu Thai and Prachachon parties seeking to join. The party will select based on performance and alignment with party principles.
Sakolthee added that local elections for council seats are less fiercely contested than general elections. Having served as deputy governor of Bangkok, he has seen many capable people working well, whom he invited to join the Democrat Party. He acknowledged that the Democrat Party is stronger this Bangkok election cycle, with Abhisit Vejjajiva returning as party leader, increasing the party's popularity in Bangkok. This strengthens the party's chances of winning many council districts.
Bangkok governor candidate to be unveiled mid-May.
Regarding the Bangkok governor candidate, Sakolthee emphasized that the unveiling will happen mid-month. Currently, the candidate cannot be revealed and is not being evasive, but must first settle professional commitments.
Asked if incumbent Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is a formidable opponent, Sakolthee admitted the incumbent is indeed strong and enjoys popularity due to his working style. However, the party has prepared thoroughly and noted that over the past four years, certain areas remain unaddressed, such as insufficient installation of CCTV cameras and lack of an integrated feeder system for transport. Sakolthee is confident the Democrat Party's governor candidate will meet the needs of Bangkok residents.
On whether running as an independent offers an advantage over having party backing, Sakolthee questioned whether Chadchart is truly independent, as insiders know which parties support him. The Democrat Party is transparent about fielding candidates under its banner, believing voters want clarity about affiliations. Revealing the council candidate team is not improper. Running as an independent has pros and cons. The party grants freedom to the governor and council candidates to develop their own policies. Sakolthee believes all council candidates will win under the party name but is ready to work for the public regardless of who becomes governor.
Sakolthee highlighted the strengths of the Democrat Party's governor candidate, who has political experience and has been a private sector executive. He believes this candidate can coordinate seamlessly with the government if elected governor.
Regarding whether the candidate will cause a big stir upon announcement, Sakolthee said impressions vary. The candidate brings solid experience, good work personality, and previous collaboration with the Democrat Party. The party had approached 6-7 individuals to run for governor, and this candidate accepted without hesitation, motivated by a desire to work with Abhisit and the Democrat Party.