Chadchart rejects rumors of an "Ah Kong system," affirms no position trading, stresses appointments and transfers are based on merit, welcomes investigation of all allegations, and thanks Jirayu for his criticism which further confirms no ties to Pheu Thai.
On 4 June 2026, Chadchart Sittipunt, an independent candidate for Governor of Bangkok running under number 9, spoke to the media regarding rumors about what is called the "Ah Kong system," alleged to be a mechanism or network managing operations and personnel appointments and transfers within Bangkok. He firmly denied the existence of such a system as claimed.
Chadchart said he does not know the origin of the term and views it as merely a politically colorful label. The individuals mentioned are only advisors and chairpersons of advisory committees who work normally with the team. Bangkok's administration operates as a team effort; no single individual has power behind the scenes. "I am the team leader responsible for all decisions. Administration follows standard procedures. There is no such thing as the Ah Kong system. Any information or complaints can be disclosed and investigated."
Regarding allegations of position trading and appointments or transfers of civil servants, Chadchart insisted this has never been his policy nor has he issued orders of that nature. He emphasized that appointments and transfers rely primarily on knowledge, ability, and performance. "If we accepted money to appoint or transfer personnel, we would be under the influence of those who paid us for life and unable to manage for the public good. Therefore, I have always prohibited this."
When asked about rumors claiming bribes were demanded in appointments and transfers, metaphorically described as paying "4 kilos" (likely meaning 4 million baht), Chadchart said he had never heard such information and never endorsed such a policy. "We select people based on performance, not position trading. The results over the years prove that the team chosen can serve the public efficiently. If someone bought their position, how could they truly serve the people?"
Chadchart also stated that if there is clear evidence of corruption, whether bribes or demands for benefits within any agency, the information should be submitted immediately as he is ready to conduct thorough investigations. Bangkok has disciplinary measures and has punished officials in many cases, including dismissals. If there is clear information about who is involved, which district or agency, please report it. He is willing to listen and act because he does not want good people to be harmed by the actions of a few.
Chadchart said he still maintains a good relationship with Jirayu and views his remarks or criticisms as a right in a democratic system. He is open to useful information that can improve work.
"I must even thank Mr. Jirayu, because what he said allows us to re-examine the facts and review our work. If there is real information, we can use it to correct and improve."
Regarding allegations involving a person referred to by the initials "Sia P.," possibly linked to the process, Chadchart said he does not know who that is and is unfamiliar with the individual mentioned.
When asked if he has discussed the rumors with his team or advisors, especially Torsak Chotimongkol, the former chairperson of the Governor’s advisory committee who was implicated in the news, Chadchart said they communicate regularly and have conducted multiple internal fact-checks without finding any irregularities. "We talk all the time and verify things. I see nothing abnormal, but when issues arise, we must re-examine them for clarity."
Regarding the planned press conference by Kris Potranan, a party-list MP and leader of the Economic Party, claiming to reveal evidence of the Ah Kong system and position trading involving district director posts priced as high as 4 million baht, Chadchart said he is not yet aware of the details and will wait to hear the information. If true, that would be good so actions can be taken against wrongdoers. He believes the MP has some information and they must await the facts.
Asked whether he feels pressured by these revelations close to the election, Chadchart said this is normal in politics and he welcomes scrutiny from all sides.
"Politicians must accept scrutiny. Over the years, I have faced criticism on many issues. Ultimately, the public will decide. My duty is to clarify the facts clearly."
Chadchart also addressed criticisms that although he runs as an independent, he has close ties with certain political parties, particularly Pheu Thai. He exclaimed, "Wow, such heavy criticism!" and reaffirmed he remains a clear independent candidate despite personal relationships with individuals from various parties through past collaborations. "I have always affirmed my independence. We are not affiliated with any political party and have never hidden this from the public. Working with people from many sides is normal because city governance requires cooperation from all sectors."
Regarding former party-list MP Viroj Lakkanaadisorn’s comment that lacking a supportive Bangkok councilor (S.K.) network might affect performance, Chadchart said the important factor is not having councilors from the same faction but having quality, honest councilors who work for the people.
"Good councilors don't have to be mine. They just need to be good, qualified, honest, and respectful to citizens and officials. I believe every political party has good people. The public should help choose quality candidates to serve." Chadchart thanked Viroj for sharing his political perspective, affirmed there is no conflict between them, and viewed it as an example of constructive politics where opinions and suggestions can be exchanged.
Regarding speculation about photos showing meetings or greetings with Bangkok councilor candidates from work groups during campaign canvassing, Chadchart explained this is normal among people who have worked together and does not imply endorsement of any particular candidate. "I meet candidates from various groups and parties, many of whom I have worked with before. Greeting or encouraging each other is normal, but I have never announced special support for any councilor candidate. Everyone performs their own role."
When asked about criticisms that if re-elected as Bangkok governor, he might face operational constraints due to administrative structures under the Ministry of Interior and the government, Chadchart said, "This is a legal condition known by everyone since deciding to run." Bangkok is a special local administrative organization operating under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Act. Therefore, the governor must comply with legal frameworks and oversight systems, including supervision by the Ministry of Interior as per national administrative structure.
"When we apply to be governor, we already know this is a legal condition to follow. It is impossible to say we are independent of the Ministry of Interior because the law establishes this structure."