Ampa Santimatanedol and Yuwadee Tunyasiri

A transvestite, left, helps Leena Jangjanya distribute campaign leaflets to passers-by on Silom road while Ms Leena, right, introduces herself as another possible candidate for the Bangkok governor election. - JETJARAS NA RANONG

A transvestite, left, helps Leena Jangjanya distribute campaign leaflets to passers-by on Silom road while Ms Leena, right, introduces herself as another possible candidate for the Bangkok governor election. - JETJARAS NA RANONG
Former Bangkok governor Chamlong Srimuang has withdrawn his support for Dr Krasae Chanawong, a former Prime Minister's Office minister, in the race for city hall.

Maj-Gen Chamlong said Dr Krasae had consulted him on whether he should run for Bangkok governor. He had previously given Dr Krasae his backing, but now, after sounding out public reaction, feedback appeared to be only lukewarm, said the former city governor.

It was possible voters were looking for a younger candidate, Maj-Gen Chamlong said, and since Dr Krasae was over 60 his chances of securing a victory would probably be slim, even if he were to run as an independent.

Maj-Gen Chamlong had cited Dr Krasae's clean track record when earlier backing his candidature, saying it would be his strongest asset in the race for city hall.

Dr Krasae served as deputy when Maj-Gen Chamlong was the governor of Bangkok. He also was a party executive when Maj-Gen Chamlong headed the Palang Dharma party.

Maj-Gen Chamlong said he was not particularly impressed by the choices of candidates unveiled so far.

Thai Rak Thai deputy leader Sudarat Keyuraphan reiterated her party's stand not to field a representative in the race scheduled to take place on Aug 29.

However, Thai Rak Thai MPs as well as city and district councillors were free to support any candidate they preferred, she said.

Mrs Sudarat also said Deputy Prime Minister Purachai Piumsombun had re-confirmed his decision not to join the race for city hall.