Bangkok: "Dr. Joe," also known as Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit, returned to his childhood neighborhood of Talat Phlu in Bangkok to engage with vendors and residents about the cost of living and trade. The visit was part of his campaign as a prospective gubernatorial candidate for the People's Party. He emphasized his commitment to promoting tourism in the area and highlighted that he would not be using campaign signs to avoid inconveniencing residents.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiwat, accompanied by a team that included Members of Parliament, walked through the Thonburi district, where Talat Phlu is located. Born and raised in this area, Mr. Chaiwat took the opportunity to listen to the concerns of the locals, who expressed a desire for the area to become a vibrant hub for tourists and shoppers. This aligns with the city's "Easy Trade" policy, which aims to promote tourism and encourage local narratives.
Mr. Chaiwat identified pedestrian walkways as a key area for improvement, noting that the paths near bus stops and train connections were particularly challenging. Enhancing these walkways with covered areas for shade and rain protection could significantly improve accessibility for tourists and locals alike, including the elderly and people with disabilities.
Addressing the controversial 40-baht fare policy for the electric train system, Mr. Chaiwat clarified that fares should be distance-based, ranging from 8 to 45 baht. He explained that this policy is supported by realistic studies and proposed legislation for a unified fare system. The aim is to ensure passengers only pay a single fare for multi-modal journeys, with service providers dividing the fare among themselves.
Mr. Chaiwat also discussed his decision not to use campaign signs, a move aimed at minimizing urban clutter and avoiding inconvenience for Bangkok residents. He expressed confidence that voters would recognize his face and name through other channels, such as social media, brochures, and vinyl banners. The People's Party believes in utilizing multiple media platforms to communicate effectively with the public, ensuring that campaign messages reach voters without causing disruption.
In summary, Mr. Chaiwat's campaign in Talat Phlu focuses on enhancing local infrastructure, promoting economic policies that align with public needs, and utilizing innovative communication strategies to connect with voters, all while maintaining a commitment to reduce urban inconvenience.