Bangkok: The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) is undertaking initiatives to enhance understanding of elections and referendums among media professionals.
According to Thai News Agency, the ECT organized an activity aimed at improving media coverage of the general election and referendum. This effort was led by Mr. Narong Klanwarin, Chairman of the Election Commission, alongside Mr. Anan Suwannarat and Mr. Narong Rakroi, both Election Commissioners. The activity focused on equipping media personnel with accurate and comprehensive information about the election and referendum processes, enabling them to effectively convey this information to the public.
Mr. Narong expressed gratitude to the media for their role in raising public awareness about the parliamentary elections and the referendum. He emphasized his openness to media inquiries, stressing that his work is for the nation and always subject to scrutiny. He noted that the simultaneous holding of both the general election and the referendum is unprecedented in Thailand, acknowledging past challenges in public understanding. However, he assured that the Election Commission is actively addressing these issues. Changes in rules and regulations, prompted by the dissolution of parliament and the requirement to hold a referendum on election day, are being managed diligently. The media's role in disseminating information to over 50 million eligible voters is considered crucial.
The ECT is clarifying the election process, particularly concerning polling stations and voting units. The unit format has been defined, and models will soon be shared with the public. The media's cooperation is sought in disseminating this information, which is viewed as a valuable opportunity. Mr. Narong, along with the other commissioners, expressed readiness to answer questions. For more detailed inquiries, the Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General, and department directors are available to assist the media. The public is encouraged to recognize the value of every vote in strengthening democracy and ensuring a smooth, honest, and fair election. High voter turnout is seen as an indicator of political awareness, and campaigns against election law violations, such as vote buying and illegal campaigning, are being promoted.
Additionally, Mr. Saeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission, and the Deputy Secretary-General elaborated on various aspects of election management, including investigation and adjudication, political party affairs, and promoting public participation. They facilitated a dialogue with the media, encouraging questions and idea exchanges on cooperation in public participation and public relations. This initiative was supported by Mr. Veera Yiprae, Deputy Secretary-General, and Ms. Boonruen Thaiwatthanatham, Director of the Public Relations Office, to strengthen collaboration between the Election Commission and the media in continuously disseminating accurate information to the public regarding the election and referendum.