Bangkok: Researchers have urged a shift in focus from extreme cases to average figures when addressing vote buying, following a survey revealing the highest payment reported for vote buying was 7,500 baht per head. However, the most common and average amounts were significantly lower, at 1,000 baht and 985 baht, respectively.

According to Thai News Agency, the survey, conducted under the Zero Corruption project by the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB) and its allies, aimed to shed light on vote-buying behavior in the 2026 election. Associate Professor Dr. Saowalee Thairungroj, an advisor to the University Council and former President of the University of Thai Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that the survey's results should be interpreted based on the average and most common responses to reflect the true situation.

The survey encompassed 4,814 participants nationwide, with responses from both the public sector (3,043) and the business sector (1,771). It highlighted that while the maximum figure of 7,500 baht was provided by a single respondent, the national average stood at 985 baht. The survey results underline that illegal vote-buying practices continue to be a concern, with spending patterns often involving sums in the thousands.

Furthermore, the survey did not focus on actual payments but rather anticipated vote-buying levels, reflecting public perception rather than confirmed illegal activities. The researchers advocate for using this data to inform policy-making, aiming to bolster prevention measures and enforce laws more rigorously.

The discussion surrounding the survey findings is seen positively, encouraging the Election Commission and related agencies to enhance election oversight. This initiative seeks to ensure fair and transparent elections while minimizing fraud incentives.