Bangkok: The People's Democratic Party (PDP) is making a significant push in the Bangkok gubernatorial election, introducing Chaiwat Sathavorawichit, popularly known as Joe, as their candidate. The party has unveiled a campaign centered around 10 policies under the theme "A City That Cares for Its People."
According to Thai News Agency, Joe Chaiwat, who leads the People's Party's executive team and Bangkok City Council members, led a delegation to Bangkok City Hall 2 to register for the election and draw candidate numbers. This team included prominent figures such as Mr. Viroj Lakkhanaadisorn, Mr. Woraphop Viriyaroj, Ms. Piangphan Boonklam, Mr. Decharat Sukkamnerd, Prof. Amorn Pimanamas, Vallop Treerukngam, and Dr. Pairoj Boonsirichamchai, along with 50 prospective Bangkok City Council candidates. They arrived by electric bus to promote energy conservation and pollution reduction.
Mr. Chaiwat announced the official start of the election campaign, highlighting the People's Party's previous initiative, "Vision for a Simple Bangkok," which aims to make life easier for all residents. The party envisions Bangkok transforming within four years into a city with a robust welfare system, supporting and caring for all its residents while providing opportunities for growth and a high quality of life.
The campaign's 10 key policies, derived from over 40 initial proposals, aim to enhance the quality of life across all age groups. These policies include the elimination of bribes for trading, support for small businesses, transformation of vocational training centers, establishment of senior care centers, and hiring for positions to provide free care for bedridden patients. Additionally, the policies focus on upgrading early childhood centers, resolving healthcare access issues, expanding bus routes, restoring canals, and implementing participatory budgeting.
Mr. Chaiwat stressed the importance of reducing campaign waste by minimizing the number of gubernatorial signs, thereby conserving resources and reducing traffic obstructions. He assured that the election would see the lowest number of campaign signs used in the past eight years, focusing instead on the Bangkok City Council candidates.
In addressing voter concerns, Mr. Chaiwat compared his candidacy with that of Professor Chatchart, highlighting his commitment to tackling corruption at its root and collaborating with other agencies to address issues beyond the governor's direct authority. He emphasized the importance of proactive governance to improve the lives of Bangkok residents.