Authorities have stepped up preparations to ensure safety and public order during Sunday’s general election and referendum, while reminding the public that the sale of alcoholic beverages will be banned from 6pm on Saturday until 6pm on Sunday.
National police chief Kittharath Punpetch has instructed officers nationwide to ensure security throughout the entire election process, from the opening of polling stations until vote counting is completed and the duties of the Election Commission are fulfilled, according to Pol Lt Gen Chaiphot Suwannarak, deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police Office.
Polling stations will be open from 8am to 5pm on Sunday, with the Election Commission stating that preliminary, unofficial results are expected to be available by around 11pm.
Police officers have also been ordered to strictly observe political neutrality and to act with caution to avoid any conduct that could violate election laws.
On election day, police will be tasked with securing polling stations, maintaining overall public safety and managing traffic flow.
The police chief has further directed all units to ensure that rapid-response teams at both station and provincial levels are fully prepared to deal with any incidents that may arise.
Pol Lt Gen Chaiphot reiterated the reminder that the sale of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited during the designated period. Those who violate the ban face penalties of up to six months’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to 10,000 baht.
He also urged members of the public to familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities as voters, as well as actions prohibited under election law.
Relevant information is available via the “Police Care” mobile application for iOS and Android, under the news and updates section by selecting “Election Law Knowledge,” which provides clear and comprehensive guidance.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has issued additional restrictions on campaigning and referendum-related activities to ensure a fair and transparent process.
Campaigning is prohibited from 6pm on Saturday until midnight on Sunday. Activities intended to encourage or discourage voter participation in the referendum are banned from 6pm on Saturday until 5pm on Sunday.
The Election Commission has called on the public to strictly comply with election laws to ensure that every vote counts and that the election proceeds in a transparent and fair manner.
