Bangkok: The Bangkok Election Commission has clarified the guidelines for candidates in the upcoming parliamentary elections, allowing the use of music for promotional purposes but strictly prohibiting dancing during campaigns.
According to Thai News Agency, the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) in Bangkok has issued a warning to parliamentary candidates about the placement of campaign signs, emphasizing that they should not obstruct traffic or block views. This warning comes after numerous public complaints were received. While candidates are permitted to play promotional music and advocate their party policies, they are prohibited from dancing to the music during their campaigns.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan Saengkhamlert, Director of the Bangkok Election Commission, addressed concerns regarding potential election law violations, noting that only complaints regarding premature campaigning have been received so far. He clarified that such campaigning is not considered an offense, as election law permits campaigning from the day the parliament is dissolved until the day before the election. The commission has been actively informing candidates about permissible activities during the registration period and has conducted public awareness campaigns to ensure clarity. He reassured the public that there are no specific areas or districts that currently require special monitoring, as candidates are well-versed in the rules.
The Director also announced a briefing meeting scheduled for January 3, 2026, at the Centra Life Hotel, Government Complex. This meeting will provide election candidates and their campaign assistants with detailed information on election laws, focusing on prohibited campaigning methods and the preparation of income and expenditure accounts. Additionally, it was noted that in the event of a parliamentary dissolution, candidates for constituency MPs could spend approximately 1.9 million baht on their campaigns.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan further cautioned candidates to avoid placing signs in positions that could obstruct traffic, following complaints about visual clutter and potential view blockages. Campaigning within government buildings is permitted, but candidates are advised to avoid disrupting work or school hours and to refrain from making noise at night.
"For parliamentary candidates who are singers and artists, composing songs with lyrics related to themselves or their party's policies is allowed. However, care must be taken to avoid organizing entertainment activities that could be deemed illegal, such as using musical instruments or backup singers. While music can be played on campaign vehicles, dancing, performing traditional Thai dance, or using models/promotional girls is prohibited, as these activities are classified as festivities," emphasized Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan.