The delay in forming a new government will not affect Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s strategy to boost the capital’s local economy, Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt said on Friday.

He was responding to a reporter’s question regarding the parliamentary vote for the next PM on Thursday, in which the sole candidate Pita Limjaroenrat failed to secure a majority of votes.

The Move Forward leader received 323 votes, most from his eight-party coalition, falling short of the 375 votes required. The second round of voting is scheduled for Wednesday.

Chadchart said BMA’s economic stimulus campaigns have been largely funded by the city’s budget. Since it does not have to wait for the new Cabinet to disburse funds, BMA can proceed with its campaign to stimulate the economy in targeted communities.

“We want the new government to be formed as soon as possible, so the BMA can seamlessly assimilate its policies with that of the new government,” said Chadchart. “However, while the new Cabinet is being formed, the BMA will continue doing what it can to boost the city’s economy, such as promoting unique identities of potential neighbourhoods and supporting community enterprises.”

However, he said, the BMA will have to wait for the new government’s decision on mega projects like the planned Grey Line monorail that will connect with the existing Yellow, Pink, Orange and Red lines.

“The BMA is also waiting for the new government to fix pending issues like the legal dispute with BTS [over the Green Line] and land tax,” Chadchart said.