Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang, who was appointed, has made it clear for the first time that he will contest the city elections in May in a bid to retain his job, as an independent candidate.
Pol Gen Aswin did not directly announce his intention. But when asked by reporters on Thursday if he planned to resign and run as an independent, he replied: "That's right."
It was the first time the incumbent capital city chief has made his political ambitions clear, after months of speculation.
Pol Gen Aswin said he would finish up his remaining work at City Hall before answering all questions about his decision. His team would call a press conference. The date had not been decided.
A source said the governor was expected to step down from the job by March 25, and officially declare his candidacy for the governorship.
He had said earlier that he would make a decision after the date for the city election was settled. Last week, the Election Commission scheduled May 22 for city elections in Bangkok and Pattaya.
His deputy Sakoltee Phattiyakul resigned on March 7 to run for the city's top job, also as an independent candidate.
Others in the running are Chadchart Sittipunt, Suchatvee Suwansawat, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn and Rossana Tositrakul.
Mr Chadchart, who leads the pack in opinion polls, and Ms Rossana, are also independents. Mr Suchatvee will represent the coalition Democrat Party and Mr Wiroj will run under the opposition Move Forward banner.
