Bangkok's gubernatorial race is gaining momentum, with eight candidates declared and 85.9% of respondents in a new survey saying they intend to vote on June 28.
The King Prajadhipok's Institute (KPI) on Friday released the findings of a recent survey on Bangkokians' interest in the upcoming election and expectations for the new Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC).
The poll, conducted from May 8 to 11 among 1,600 Bangkok residents aged 18 and over, found 85.9% said they would definitely vote, while 9.2% said they would probably vote or were undecided. Only 4.9% indicated they were unlikely to vote.
KPI said the strong turnout intention may reflect growing political awareness and expectations for tangible improvements in urban life. However, public engagement with election news remained divided. Around 49.2% said they followed election coverage closely, while 48.3% admitted paying little attention, and 2.5% said they did not follow election news at all.
The institute noted that willingness to vote does not necessarily mean voters feel sufficiently informed.
Asked about the qualities they wanted in new BMC members, 26.4% prioritised candidates who genuinely understand local community problems. Another 21.3% preferred representatives with strong coordination and problem-solving skills, while 19.3% valued honesty and transparency. Political party affiliation ranked lowest, cited by only 3.4% of respondents.
The survey also found differing priorities across districts. Residents in outer and middle districts favoured candidates with strong local knowledge, particularly on transport, drainage, utilities and access to public services. Inner-city residents placed the highest value on coordination and problem-solving abilities, followed by local knowledge and transparency.
The contest itself is becoming increasingly crowded. At least eight candidates have now entered the race, promoting platforms ranging from urban modernisation to technology-driven development.
Among the latest entrants is Veerapoj Lueprasitsakul, an adviser to the Farmers Federations Association for Development Thailand, who launched his candidacy under the "Bangkok Leadership Team" banner with an "AI City" vision focused on human development, modernisation and strengthening Bangkok's economy. Mr Veerapoj said elected leadership should involve collaboration with rival candidates, academics, communities and the private sector.
Pasapong Chaiwiriyawanich, from the Bangkok Can Fly group, is targeting younger and working-age voters.
