Picture courtesy of TNA-MCOT

Political parties' promises of cash handouts seem to be falling flat, as revealed by a recent poll conducted by King Prajadhipok's Institute. Released on Friday, the survey indicates that 67% of respondents will not consider these financial incentives when they vote in the upcoming general election on 8 February.

The poll suggests that many believe these pledges are mere tactics to court voters rather than genuine efforts to improve the country. In the southern region, scepticism is particularly strong, with 80% of voters dismissing such schemes as irrelevant to their decisions. Conversely, in Bangkok, only 44.7% of respondents indicated they would remain uninfluenced by the cash offers.

The survey, which took place from December 26 to 29, asked 2,000 eligible voters across the country. This snapshot of public opinion highlights a general distrust in the effectiveness of cash promises, suggesting that voters are seeking more substantial commitments from parties.

Experts believe this survey could affect the strategies political parties adopt in the run-up to the election. Campaigns might need to pivot towards more convincing economic and developmental policies to win over sceptical electorates.

Looking ahead, politicians may need to rethink their approach to voter engagement. With the general election looming, emphasis might shift towards addressing broader national issues rather than relying on simple financial enticements, reported the Bangkok Post.

Key Takeaways:

• 67% of respondents dismiss cash handout schemes in voting decisions.

• Scepticism is highest in the southern region, with 80% ignoring such promises.

• The survey sampled 2,000 voters nationwide between 26-29 December.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-17

 

 

Take the money and then vote how you want - sounds like a good idea.

these are bribes - if it's not illegal then the law needs to be changed

I wonder which party will win the election and are not allowed to form a government because of some sort of interference

4 hours ago, webfact said:

promises of cash handouts

I think they mean , when elected there will be hand outs like the 10k from the

last years.

So it is not a bribe or illegal, just another election promise that may not be kept.

20 minutes ago, FlorC said:

I think they mean , when elected there will be hand outs like the 10k from the

last years.

So it is not a bribe or illegal, just another election promise that may not be kept.

What 10k from last year?

After promising the 10k for everyone until their face turned blue and they were foaming at the mouth..

Only some old people and some disabled people got the 10K...

No one else got the 10k.....

They lied...

They didn't keep their promises last time - 10k to everyone over 16 - probably less than 10% actually received anything as the gov said we'll use it for "better things"

Politicians will say anything to get into power then renegade on the "promises" in nearly every country

When a politician talks you know they're lying - their lips move 😉

Take the money once you vote no one will know who you voted for really ive seen people Take money from all the parties its all about buying votes should be outlawed really

11 hours ago, Artisi said:

Take the money and then vote how you want - sounds like a good idea.

There's a difference. There's vote buying on the ground where as you say take the money and vote for who you want to vote for (as my wife does) and political promises of monetary handouts if the party gets in. I think the OP is more about the latter and it seems people are starting to wake up to the BS.