Anucha teamed up with Abhisit to address Sukhumvit's image, affirming that the Democrat Party supports cannabis only for medical use. He pointed out that Bangkok's role must be to strictly control cannabis-related activities, keeping them away from temples and schools. He viewed the large number of candidates running for Bangkok governor as a positive sign, energizing the city's residents.
At 09:45 on 23 May 2026 at Sukhumvit 5 Road, Bangkok, Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, along with Korn Chatikavanij, Sakoltee Phattiyakul, deputy party leaders, Ong-art Klampaiboon, party advisor, and Anucha Burapachaisri, Democrat candidate for Bangkok governor, visited the Sukhumvit area to inspect advertisements promoting recreational cannabis use. They gathered data to develop policies for the Bangkok governor election campaign. Anucha said that Sukhumvit is an economic and tourism hub, but along the road there are ads inviting recreational cannabis use. The Democrat Party supports cannabis strictly for medical purposes and believes recreational use must be regulated. Anything beyond legal limits requires urgent action. Bangkok can manage advertisements, invitations, and shops near schools or temples directly. Other related matters involving laws and ministries such as Health and Education require coordination led by Bangkok, ensuring clear standards within legal frameworks.
“Today's visit focuses on cannabis issues. Other related matters, such as nominees conducting business linked to main laws and other ministries, require coordinated legal enforcement. When citizens file complaints about illegal activities, we acknowledge that some responsibilities lie beyond Bangkok's remit, but we must take the lead in receiving complaints from Bangkok residents. If we want Bangkok to be an economic city, we must avoid misleading the public or creating harmful values for youth. Also, as a tourist city, free cannabis advertisements must be controlled to prevent damaging the city’s image. Today I’m not just inspecting but assessing urgent matters because Bangkok is a city of angels and more; we must promote a good image,” Anucha said.
When asked what Bangkok can act on, Anucha said the first is business licenses. Bangkok agencies can inspect if establishments operate according to their purposes. Advertising signs must be appropriate and comply with Bangkok regulations. Odors and smoke must be controlled to prevent disturbing residents. These actions can be taken quickly. Beyond that, Bangkok must coordinate with related agencies to inspect, for example, medical licenses for patient care. Regarding flood control, Anucha said they will not just react but check readiness of drainage systems, dams, floodgates, and personnel in risk areas, which are already identified. All must be prepared at all times with measures ready for emergencies.
When asked about public response since his launch, Anucha said polls before launching showed Bangkok residents were not very engaged. After the launch, polls improved, and residents became more alert about electing a new governor. The increasing number of candidates has raised hope for a better Bangkok. The Democrat Party has long been a hope for the people. Their field visits and future policies, including those of candidates for all 50 district council seats, demonstrate the party’s commitment. Although it is a local election, party executives including Abhisit, Sakoltee managing Bangkok, Korn overseeing economics, and Ong-art actively participate. The party has the structure, knowledge, and experience to confidently deliver the best for Bangkok residents.
Reporters noted that after the interview, Abhisit and his team walked to meet motorcycle taxi drivers to discuss fuel price problems and income impacts, as well as government compensation announced recently. The drivers unanimously reported reduced incomes to about 500 baht per day, which is just manageable. Some had registered for compensation, others had not. The group then walked into an alley, noticing tangled and improperly installed communication cables mostly hanging just overhead. Anucha said this is a major problem Bangkok must urgently fix to ensure safety and enhance the city’s appearance.
