A network of groups has pledged to support calls in Chiang Mai for the office of provincial governor to be an elected position, a position which is consistent with opinion polls in other regions that suggest most Thais also want elected governors.
A coalition of activists claiming to represent 60 local and national groups on the matter issued a joint statement yesterday, saying it backed those in Chiang Mai who wish to see their province follow the same democratic model as Bangkok.
The network includes the Provincial Administrative Organisation Association of Thailand, the Campaign for Democracy and the Provincial Self-Administration Network.
The coalition suggested that elections for the post would lead to a bona fide distribution of power which best answers the needs of residents.
It added the campaign was gaining momentum and looks set to spread beyond Chiang…
