Prachuap Khiri Khan: Ittiporn Boonprakong, the chairman of the Election Commission, has issued a stern warning to candidates and voters urging adherence to legal norms during the ongoing municipal elections. He emphasized the ramifications of both criminal and political penalties for violations. In a bid to ensure smooth electoral processes, he directed election officials nationwide to monitor weather conditions and set a voter turnout target of 70 percent.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ittiporn, accompanied by his team, visited polling stations at Hua Hin School in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, where eight polling stations have been set up. The officials commenced preparations early in the morning to facilitate eligible voters in exercising their rights. The EC chairman personally inspected various units to ensure regulatory compliance and interacted with voters, some of whom arrived before the official voting time.

In a post-opening statement, Mr. Ittiporn noted that there were 338 complaints of election law violations, with an additional 14 reported, bringing the total to 352. He contrasted this with the previous election’s 1,743 complaints and expressed the commission’s commitment to preventing an increase in violations. Efforts to discourage vote buying or selling are ongoing.

Cooperation from provincial governors, police commanders, and the military has been pivotal in setting up checkpoints to deter legal infractions. Mr. Ittiporn reported that the situation remains stable with no confirmed instances of vote buying, although investigations are still in progress. Legal action will be pursued if evidence emerges.

Highlighting the importance of local elections, Mr. Ittiporn reiterated that they reflect the political climate and contribute to national prosperity through strong local governance. He urged candidates and voters to refrain from illegal activities, emphasizing that both parties involved in vote buying or selling will face criminal and political repercussions.

Mr. Ittiporn also addressed weather-related concerns, instructing provincial EC offices to monitor conditions, especially during potential monsoons, to safeguard election documents and polling facilities. Preparation measures are in place to handle any situation on election day.

With a target of 70 percent voter turnout, Mr. Ittiporn referenced the 2021 turnout of 66.8 percent, underscoring the significance of local elections as direct governance mechanisms. He encouraged citizens to participate and noted that election results are expected between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., accessible via municipal Facebook pages or the EC’s Smart Vote app.