When the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) announced in the middle of the year -- amid heavy public pressure -- that it would step back from its plan to take over the management of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), some may have breathed a sigh of relief. It's generally thought that the issue has been settled. It's not. In fact, the issue is getting more serious.
Under the initial takeover plan, the BMA wanted its Culture, Sports and Tourism Department to operate the centre, booting out the BACC foundation. In media reports, governor Aswin Kwanmuang said he wanted the centre to accommodate "co-working space" after he reportedly expressed disappointment upon seeing some young people squatting on the floors during his "unannounced" visit.
Instead, Pol Gen Aswin said his previous inspection of the BACC "found several areas could be further developed for the public with the procurement of more chairs and tables for visitors".
