Bangkok: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is setting a high target for the upcoming election of Bangkok Metropolitan Council members and the Governor of Bangkok, aiming for over 70% voter turnout. Dr. Lertlak Leelaruangsaeng, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the BMA, chaired a crucial meeting to discuss the strategy for publicizing the election. The meeting, which included executives and public relations officers from various BMA departments, was held both at the Public Relations Office, Bangkok City Hall (Sao Chingcha), Phra Nakhon District, and through online conferencing.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Leelaruangsaeng emphasized the importance of facilitating citizen participation in the election scheduled for June 28, 2026. The Deputy Permanent Secretary highlighted that the BMA is committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient voting process, encouraging maximum participation of Bangkok residents in shaping the city's future. Dr. Leelaruangsaeng also stressed the need for neutrality among all agencies and strict measures to maintain transparency, such as removing signs with the names of former executives who are candidates.
The BMA is enhancing collaboration with external networks, including shopping malls, banks, and public transportation providers, to promote election awareness. The goal is to reach all segments of the population, encouraging collective city development. An action plan was presented at the meeting, focusing on achieving key objectives and raising awareness among urban residents.
The participation goal is to increase voter turnout to at least 70%, a significant rise from the approximately 60% in the previous election. A special focus will be on first-time voters (Gen Z), aiming to reduce invalid ballots to below 1% by educating voters on the correct voting procedure.
Among the campaign activities are symbolic gestures like a TikTok Challenge, inviting staff and the public to engage through dance and sign language. An aerobics group activity is scheduled at Lumpini Park on June 16, 2026, incorporating election-themed music. Additionally, the 'I Will Go to Vote' campaign will take place at the Skywalk, Pathumwan Intersection, on June 19-20, 2026, targeting high-traffic areas.
Comprehensive communication channels are being utilized, including BMA's media platforms and a newly launched website, www.????????????????69.com (BangkokElection69), serving as a hub for candidate information and election news. Collaboration with private sector networks is also underway to amplify the campaign's message.
Lastly, all departments and district offices have been assigned to ensure the accuracy of public relations signs, maintain neutrality, and produce inclusive content, such as captioned video clips, to accommodate people with disabilities.