Advance voting ahead of Thailand’s general election began nationwide on Sunday, with more than two million eligible voters registered to cast their ballots a week before polling day on February 8.
According to the Election Commission, a total of 2.41 million voters registered for advance voting this year. Of these, around 2.26 million opted to vote outside their home constituencies, while 8,610 chose to cast ballots early within their own constituencies.
The registration figure also included 1,666 eligible voters with disabilities and 138,810 Thai citizens residing overseas.
Thailand has a total of 52.92 million registered eligible voters.
Advance voting is taking place from 8am to 5pm on Sunday at designated polling locations across the country.
The commission said 424 polling stations have been set up nationwide for voters casting ballots outside their constituencies, while 421 stations are operating for those voting early within their constituencies in Bangkok and provincial areas.
In addition, 22 polling stations have been established in 18 provinces specifically to accommodate elderly voters and people with disabilities.
Bangkok recorded the highest number of advance voting registrations, with 844,672 voters signing up to vote ahead of election day.
Within the capital, Bang Kapi district reported the largest number of advance voters at approximately 59,000, followed by Chatuchak with around 51,000 and Lat Krabang with about 38,000.
The Election Commission reminded voters that participation in advance voting does not exempt them from attending polling stations on February 8 to take part in the accompanying national referendum, which will ask voters whether Thailand should adopt a new constitution.
