Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang has poured cold water on speculation that he is looking to run for a second term after former police chief Chakthip Chaijinda announced his withdrawal from the the next gubernatorial race.
Reacting dismissively to Pol Gen Chakthip's decision to bow out, Pol Gen Aswin said it is up to the former police chief what he intended to do with his career in politics.
"It's his business where he wants to go from here. Whether he applies [as a candidate in the governor election] or not has nothing to do with me," the governor said.
Pol Gen Chakthip said he will not be running in the next gubernatorial race expected sometime next year after a phu yai, or a senior figure he respected, asked him to drop out and pursue other political interests.
It was reported his decision came after the ruling Palang Pracharath Party's support for his bid to contest the governor poll had ebbed.
The PPRP was reportedly instead shifting its attention to Pol Gen Aswin who might make a better cut in the election.
However, Pol Gen Aswin has denied he has made up his mind on whether he will vie for re-election.
"I've no fear of contesting the governor election. But I haven't decided to run yet," he said. "Ask me again after my current term as governor expires."
It was also reported earlier that three prominent figures may emerge as potential Bangkok governor candidates with the PPRP's blessing.
They are: Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, a prime minister's adviser and adviser to the PPRP leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon; Pathum Thani governor Narongsak Osottanakorn famous for his role in directing the 2018 rescue operation of the young "Wild Boar" football team trapped in a cave in Chiang Rai; and Suchatchavee Suwansawas, rector of King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang.