Bangkok: The Bangkok Election Commission has established registration venues for parliamentary candidates across 33 constituencies, with the process set to commence on December 27th and continue until December 31st at the Thai-Japanese Youth Center’s Sports Complex 2.
According to Thai News Agency, candidates, along with one accompanying person, are permitted entry to the registration site. They are cautioned against organizing entertainment events following the receipt of their candidate numbers and are advised to be cautious with campaign signs that could obstruct views and traffic. Initial inspections have revealed no election law violations in Bangkok.
Officials have prepared the venue, dividing the area into two sections, with an external workspace designated for media personnel, who have already set up mobile broadcasting units and equipment to cover the registration process. Inside, tables and chairs have been arranged for candidates arriving before 8:30 AM, with registration areas organized according to a predetermined layout. Traffic management and security are being handled by police officers from Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station, EOD officers, and municipal officers to maintain order in the vicinity.
For the public and supporters following the registration process inside the Sports Complex 2, a grandstand area will be available for cheering on the applicants. Sub-Lieutenant Sampan Saengkhamlert, Director of the Bangkok Election Commission, elaborated on the registration process, indicating that candidates will register at the front entrance in order of their constituencies. At 8:25 AM, officials will announce a 5-minute warning before closing the doors at 8:30 AM to finalize registration.
After closing the doors, the Bangkok Election Director will brief candidates on the procedures, including a meeting with district election directors to attempt reaching an agreement. If no consensus is reached, a lottery will determine candidate numbers. Document verification will precede the lottery, and any discrepancies will require candidates to register by December 31st at 4:30 PM. Following document verification, the lottery process will assign candidate numbers and order, after which candidates can campaign with their assigned numbers but are prohibited from hosting entertainment events until the election period concludes.
Regarding party leaders and supporters, space will be allocated in the grandstand area, with only candidates and one assistant allowed in the registration area. Bangkok has prepared 90% of the registration process, with a rehearsal scheduled for December 26th. The necessary personnel, equipment, and venues are ready.
When questioned about election law violations, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan confirmed no complaints had been received since the royal decree’s issuance. Candidates are required to submit documents for electronic campaigning, campaign assistants, vehicles, and public rallies to the Bangkok Metropolitan Election Commission office.
On campaign sign regulations, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan mentioned that agencies are notifying the Bangkok Election Commission office to issue relevant announcements. Political parties are currently allowed to install campaign signs according to the 2023 election guidelines, ensuring no violations. However, it is emphasized that signs must not obstruct visibility to prevent road accidents.