In 1971, Phra Nakhon was merged with Thon Buri province on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River to form Krungthep Maha Nakhon, now the capital’s official name. (Photo by Waranont (Joe))

 

Bangkokians choose their next governor on May 22, the latest episode in 50 years of administration that has shaped the world capital that we know today.

 

Here, Thai PBS World reviews highlights from the last half-century of Bangkok’s governance, including overlooked facts that readers may find fascinating.

 

Pre-election Bangkok

 

Thailand’s capital has been known as “Bangkok” for decades, though its historical name was Phra Nakhon province.

 

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In 1971, Phra Nakhon was merged with Thon Buri province on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River to form Krungthep Maha Nakhon, now the capital’s official name.

 

Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/5-decades-of-governor-elections-that-have-shaped-modern-bangkok/

 

-- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-05-10

 

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Things have improved, public transport has improved, less major traffic events, less flooding, etc.

 

But the question remains did the governor's influence this (apart from Bhichet who I think did) or was it simply progress. And has progress been fast enough. The metropolis is not everyone's cup of tea (I myself am 1 week from from my permanent departure after decades as a BKK inner city resident) but I think it suffices well as a capital that is quite different for various reasons.

 

What will the new governor bring? One thing for sure, failed promises but a happy bank manager.

This should be 50 years of failures not successes, just about the only beneficial change is the BTS and MRT systems, the rest of the city has been left to rampages of developers

6 hours ago, webfact said:

Bangkokians choose their next governor on May 22, the latest episode in 50 years of administration that has shaped the world capital that we know today.

Lets hope some lessons have been learned on what not to do in the next 50 years.