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The election, scheduled to take place on October 5, is overshadowed by the current political turmoil. A latest poll shows that more than 80 per cent of Bangkokians are not aware that the gubernatorial election will be held on October 5. Academics have voiced concerns that fewer Bangkokians will show up at voting booths on the day.

Narong Petchprasert of the Economics Faculty at Chulalongkorn University fears the current political stand-off will divert attention from the election. It would be unfortunate if that is the case, he said. Narong believes the Bangkok gubernatorial election is as important as the general election because the governor's performance directly affects the lives of more than 10 million people who live in the capital city. After all, Bangkok is the country's centre of business, government, transport and international trade. Bangkok accounts for three-quarters of the country's economy and is the face of the nation to the world.

The traditional thinking goes that the Bangkok governor is responsible for managing waste treatment and floods. But waste treatment and floods are no longer the sole focus of the governor. Global warming and environmental issues have become new concerns for people in the city. The governor also has to oversee the quality of schools in Bangkok. In short, the governor today has a mission to prepare Bangkok for future generations.

More importantly, come October 5, Bangkokians should set an example for the rest of the country that they still have faith in a fair electoral system. Regardless of political developments from now until the election date, Bangkokians have to show that Thais never lose hope in democracy. They must turn out and vote for who they think will be most qualified to become city governor.