BANGKOK, Jan 16 – Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra kicked off the city’s gubernatorial election campaign for candidate Pongsapat Pongcharoen at a suburban fresh market today, promising to imprint smiles on the faces of Bangkok people.
Ms Yingluck, accompanied by Pheu Thai Party executives, was welcomed by vendors and shoppers, some of whom presented her with flowers and had photos taken with her.
Metropolitan police commander Kamronvit Toopkrachang was available to facilitate the campaign activity while Sudarat Keyuraphan, Pol Gen Pongsapat’s strong rival for the candidacy, failed to show up.
Ms Yingluck highlighted the Pheu Thai’s campaign strategy of seamless cooperation between the national and city administrations if Gen Pongsapat is elected to run the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
Describing the Pheu Thai’s policy as realistic and applicable, the premier asked Bangkok’s people to give her party a chance, adding that candidates to run as Gen Pongsapat’s prospective deputies will be unveiled soon.
Asked if Gen Pongsapat will succeed as a fresh politician like her, Ms Yingluck said it depends on the people’s decision.
Candidate Pongsapat said the party’s full policy will be announced on Jan 21 after he officially registers his candidacy for the polls as required by the Election Commission (EC).
On allegations that he stole a radio while studying in the US, the former deputy national police chief said he is scheduled to meet with the EC Bangkok commission later today to discuss campaign procedures during which he will produce evidence relating to the charge.
Misinformation and misunderstandings concerning the allegations should be clarified to avoid legal action in the future, he said.
