Chalong’s ex-mayor resists pressure to close popular Suksamran Market

Former Chalong Mayor Samran Jindapol is standing his ground against formal charges, refusing to shut down the popular Suksamran Market on Chao Fa East Road, despite pressure from Chalong Municipality.

The market, which has been functioning without disruption for nearly ten years, is still bustling with residents and vendors, who continue to back Samran staunchly.

The ex-mayor, fondly known by locals as Nayok Samran or Prime Minister Samran, faced the charges at Chalong Police Station last week. He stands accused of operating a public market without the necessary authorisation and of disregarding an official directive.

Following these developments, he organised a press conference at the market yesterday (November 23), urging Chalong Municipality to clarify the charges against him.

Samran contends that the market has always been operated within the bounds of the law, and yet, it has not been granted the requisite official permission to open. The market, set up on his land at an expense of 400,000 baht, was initially an initiative to provide locals with an avenue for selling fresh produce and making a living.

Over the years, Suksamran Market has won over both locals and vendors, becoming a popular spot in the community. This popularity was evident when Samran presented himself at the police station on November 17, and numerous vendors turned up in a show of support. The same support was extended at the press conference, with Samran receiving large garlands and roses from the community.

Legal regulations

According to Samran, when he first established the market, he had adhered to all legal regulations, and the market was given the green light to operate. However, issues arose during the renewal of the market’s licence.

The municipality had indicated certain alterations needed to be made for the licence to be renewed. Despite making these modifications, the municipality has continued to deny the renewal of the permit, Samran alleges.

The former Mayor is firm in his stance that all legal requirements have been met, both in the initial request for permission to open the market and in the revisions made to comply with the law. He expressed his confusion over why the licence has not been renewed, despite addressing the municipality’s concerns, reported Phuket News.

As for the future of the Suksamran Market, Samran remains determined. He assured that the market will continue operating for the time being, dismissing rumours of its closure. He also expressed his readiness to meet any additional requirements to ensure the market’s operation. Meanwhile, the vendors have begun discussions on how to navigate through this situation.

No move has been made by officials from Chalong Municipality, under the leadership of Chalong Mayor Thanaporn Ongsantiphap, to forcibly close the market. As of now, the market continues to operate daily, without interference.