Panpree looms as PPP candidate as BMA governor

Although Panpree said he had not been formally contacted, sources have said the matter is just a formality. What's more, Panpree has started to talk to the media about his vision for Bangkok.

He said the capital still faced many problems but the new governor must turn the city into a modern metropolis with better quality of life, a better environment and make that apparent to the world, especially cities within the region.

Panpree said issues such as the environment, garbage, traffic congestion, lack of adequate green space and safety, in terms of property and people's lives, had to be confronted. He felt he was qualified because he could work with the national government.

"Bangkok must be turned into a quality city. The person who will become governor must be able to work with the [national] government because many of the problems require coordination with state agencies in order to succeed," he told the media yesterday.

Suwat Wansirikul, chairman of People Power's Bangkok chapter, said the group would meet today before a larger party meeting. He admitted Panpree was the top candidate and it may just be a matter of him confirming he would run.

Anudit Nakhontab, a PPP MP for Bangkok, said Panpree had a good image and was likely to be chosen by the party later this week. Panpree has also received a blessing from former Thai Rak Thai executive Sudarat Keyuraphan, who stood as a gubernatorial candidate a few years ago.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said application for candidates could be lodged from September 1 to 5, and that strict measures would be enforced to guard ballot papers.

Election Commissioner Praphan Naiyakowit said the Bangkok branch of the EC would oversee the election. It would decide if the traditional parade with long-drum music would be allowed on the application day.

October 5 appears likely to be the election date for voters in 6,337 precincts. Some 4.5 million ballot-papers will be printed on A4 format for 4.2 million eligible voters.

Ballot papers would be stored in a safe location called the "strong room". They will contain only candidates' numbers - no names or family names.