Bangkok/Pattaya, Thailand June 28th, 2026)
Unofficial results from local elections held today indicate that Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Pattaya Mayor Poramese Ngampichet (widely known as his nickname “Beer”) are on track for decisive reelections, reflecting voter approval of their records in office.
Polling stations across Bangkok and Pattaya closed at 5 p.m., with vote counting underway all evening. Early tallies from Bangkok showed Chadchart, running as an independent, commanding a commanding lead far ahead of rivals including Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk (independent, ~13-14%) and Chaiwat Sathawornwichit of the People’s Party (~8%).
Analysts and former aides described the outcome as a potential “landslide,”, building on Chadchart’s strong performance in 2022 when he won over 1.3 million votes. His campaign is focused on continuity through more than 250 policies focused on livability, economic opportunity, efficient administration, and addressing urban challenges like PM2.5 pollution and infrastructure.
In Pattaya, unofficial counts similarly favored incumbent Poramet Ngampichet, who campaigned on building on his first term’s achievements in promoting large scale tourism events, city infrastructure, waste management, and economic development. Rivals included candidates from the People’s Party and independents, but early indications pointed to his reelection in another massive lead and win.
Reactions have been largely positive among supporters, with praise for the incumbents’ focus on practical governance over national political divides. Chadchart’s team signaled immediate policy reviews upon confirmation, while Pattaya voters focused on ongoing development and upcoming major events like Tomorrowland in the tourist hub. Turnout details and official certification by the Election Commission are expected in the coming days.
These concurrent elections mark a key test of local priorities in Thailand’s capital and its major beach destination.
