General Election Confirmed To Be Held On December 23, 2007

[Mid]

The EC insisted the new rules would make the December 23 election fair and equal for all parties. But it would reconsider them if it made campaigning too difficult.

EC member Sodsri Sattayatham affirms guidelines cannot be amended

right hand , ....... meet left

[hammered]

New EC campaign rules spark outcry

Political parties yesterday decried the Election Commission's (EC) campaigning rules as too tough.

They say banning candidates from running their own public activities will benefit vote buyers.

Parties said they would submit letters to the commission demanding it alter the rules to make them more democratic.

The EC insisted the new rules would make the December 23 election fair and equal for all parties. But it would reconsider them if it made campaigning too difficult.

"The new rules violate democratic principles and will push the country backward," Thavorn Senneam, deputy secretary-general of the Democrat Party, said.

"They will benefit the parties that like to buy votes," he said. "But it will ruin the Democrat Party as our strategy is to approach and get in touch with the people."

Supapornphong Chuanboon, deputy spokesman for the Matchima Thippatai Party, said the EC's rules were so tough candidates would have little room to run a campaign without breaking the law.

He said he was worried the rules would hamper the restoration of democracy.

Wichit Plangsrisakul, a legal expert for the People Power Party, said the rules were difficult for any party to follow. As such, they would not be able to take any new steps to getting politics back on track.

He said quality candidates would have no chance to make themselves known to the public.

The Democrats planned to submit an appeal to the EC today asking it to reconsider the rules, Thavorn said.

The EC obliges all political parties to follow its "roadmap" to make the election fair and equal. It claims the rules will reduce the influence of money politics.

Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukhagganond said the EC welcomed comments on whether certain rules were too strict. However, the EC was serious about preventing electoral fraud and the use of dirty or underhand tactics.

Television stations were still allowed to report on politics, but they must not feature specific politicians to the detriment of their opponents. Candidates should not be favoured over others just because they have more money, Apichart said.

He said the EC had tried its best to make the regulations acceptable to the people. It had tried to ease some rules that might have been too tough, while at the same time keeping others that would help to improve things. While trying to loosen the rules on campaigning, not everyone would be happy.

EC secretary-general Suthiphon Thaveechaigarn warned the parties to begin observing the campaigning rules immediately as the royal decree on the December 23 election came into effect yesterday.

Election candidates and media outlets, if convicted of campaign violations, could face a jail term of up to six months, he said.

"The rules are meant to ensure fairness so that large parties will not have an advantage over small parties," he said.

One of the key rules was that television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties in the race if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

The regulations on airtime are prescribed by respective provincial panels, each of which is chaired by a provincial election committee chairman.

Each local government is responsible for supervising campaign billboards and other forms of public displays.

Candidates are allowed to use mobile units to broadcast campaign messages but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches at a rally.

Candidates can communicate freely with their constituents via email, websites and print media.

Supapornphong said Matchima Thippatai leaders were examining if the party's current activities or future plans would violate the EC rules.

If the party found it impossible to carry on under the rules or found they made the election unfair for any party, it would officially oppose them and announce its stand to the EC.

People Power Party deputy leader Somchai Wongsawat said it would not reject the strict campaigning rules as long as the EC enforced them fairly.

"My party will not resort to underhand tactics to sway votes in spite of the stringent rules."

Somchai called on the EC not to play favourites. He said the party had issued a handbook reminding its candidates to observe the 45 guidelines on campaigning and avoid being disqualified.

Strictly speaking...

1 All campaign billboards and posters are only allowed to be set up in spots designated by the EC, which will also have the power to rule on the size of posters.

2 Only the EC is authorised to allow stages or forums for candidates to publicly campaign, both in the capital and provinces. Privately run associations and educational institutions are not allowed to provide such forums without permission from the EC.

3 The EC will prescribe air-time on television and radio for all parties.

4 Candidates are only allowed to use cars to advertise campaign messages, but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches in front of a rally.

5 Candidates must notify the EC about expenditure by campaign staff.

6 Candidates are banned from presiding over ceremonies such as merit making, or giving donations or charity events.

7 Campaign parades with music are banned from the registration day.

8 Television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

Source: The Nation - 26 October 2007

These rules will certainly help the big money MP and vote buying parties. Not surprised that PPP are not complaining too loudly.

[lazeeboy]

New EC campaign rules spark outcry

Political parties yesterday decried the Election Commission's (EC) campaigning rules as too tough.

They say banning candidates from running their own public activities will benefit vote buyers.

Parties said they would submit letters to the commission demanding it alter the rules to make them more democratic.

The EC insisted the new rules would make the December 23 election fair and equal for all parties. But it would reconsider them if it made campaigning too difficult.

"The new rules violate democratic principles and will push the country backward," Thavorn Senneam, deputy secretary-general of the Democrat Party, said.

"They will benefit the parties that like to buy votes," he said. "But it will ruin the Democrat Party as our strategy is to approach and get in touch with the people."

Supapornphong Chuanboon, deputy spokesman for the Matchima Thippatai Party, said the EC's rules were so tough candidates would have little room to run a campaign without breaking the law.

He said he was worried the rules would hamper the restoration of democracy.

Wichit Plangsrisakul, a legal expert for the People Power Party, said the rules were difficult for any party to follow. As such, they would not be able to take any new steps to getting politics back on track.

He said quality candidates would have no chance to make themselves known to the public.

The Democrats planned to submit an appeal to the EC today asking it to reconsider the rules, Thavorn said.

The EC obliges all political parties to follow its "roadmap" to make the election fair and equal. It claims the rules will reduce the influence of money politics.

Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukhagganond said the EC welcomed comments on whether certain rules were too strict. However, the EC was serious about preventing electoral fraud and the use of dirty or underhand tactics.

Television stations were still allowed to report on politics, but they must not feature specific politicians to the detriment of their opponents. Candidates should not be favoured over others just because they have more money, Apichart said.

He said the EC had tried its best to make the regulations acceptable to the people. It had tried to ease some rules that might have been too tough, while at the same time keeping others that would help to improve things. While trying to loosen the rules on campaigning, not everyone would be happy.

EC secretary-general Suthiphon Thaveechaigarn warned the parties to begin observing the campaigning rules immediately as the royal decree on the December 23 election came into effect yesterday.

Election candidates and media outlets, if convicted of campaign violations, could face a jail term of up to six months, he said.

"The rules are meant to ensure fairness so that large parties will not have an advantage over small parties," he said.

One of the key rules was that television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties in the race if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

The regulations on airtime are prescribed by respective provincial panels, each of which is chaired by a provincial election committee chairman.

Each local government is responsible for supervising campaign billboards and other forms of public displays.

Candidates are allowed to use mobile units to broadcast campaign messages but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches at a rally.

Candidates can communicate freely with their constituents via email, websites and print media.

Supapornphong said Matchima Thippatai leaders were examining if the party's current activities or future plans would violate the EC rules.

If the party found it impossible to carry on under the rules or found they made the election unfair for any party, it would officially oppose them and announce its stand to the EC.

People Power Party deputy leader Somchai Wongsawat said it would not reject the strict campaigning rules as long as the EC enforced them fairly.

"My party will not resort to underhand tactics to sway votes in spite of the stringent rules."

Somchai called on the EC not to play favourites. He said the party had issued a handbook reminding its candidates to observe the 45 guidelines on campaigning and avoid being disqualified.

Strictly speaking...

1 All campaign billboards and posters are only allowed to be set up in spots designated by the EC, which will also have the power to rule on the size of posters.

2 Only the EC is authorised to allow stages or forums for candidates to publicly campaign, both in the capital and provinces. Privately run associations and educational institutions are not allowed to provide such forums without permission from the EC.

3 The EC will prescribe air-time on television and radio for all parties.

4 Candidates are only allowed to use cars to advertise campaign messages, but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches in front of a rally.

5 Candidates must notify the EC about expenditure by campaign staff.

6 Candidates are banned from presiding over ceremonies such as merit making, or giving donations or charity events.

7 Campaign parades with music are banned from the registration day.

8 Television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

Source: The Nation - 26 October 2007

These rules will certainly help the big money MP and vote buying parties. Not surprised that PPP are not complaining too loudly.

like they are going to obey the rules

[hammered]

New EC campaign rules spark outcry

Political parties yesterday decried the Election Commission's (EC) campaigning rules as too tough.

They say banning candidates from running their own public activities will benefit vote buyers.

Parties said they would submit letters to the commission demanding it alter the rules to make them more democratic.

The EC insisted the new rules would make the December 23 election fair and equal for all parties. But it would reconsider them if it made campaigning too difficult.

"The new rules violate democratic principles and will push the country backward," Thavorn Senneam, deputy secretary-general of the Democrat Party, said.

"They will benefit the parties that like to buy votes," he said. "But it will ruin the Democrat Party as our strategy is to approach and get in touch with the people."

Supapornphong Chuanboon, deputy spokesman for the Matchima Thippatai Party, said the EC's rules were so tough candidates would have little room to run a campaign without breaking the law.

He said he was worried the rules would hamper the restoration of democracy.

Wichit Plangsrisakul, a legal expert for the People Power Party, said the rules were difficult for any party to follow. As such, they would not be able to take any new steps to getting politics back on track.

He said quality candidates would have no chance to make themselves known to the public.

The Democrats planned to submit an appeal to the EC today asking it to reconsider the rules, Thavorn said.

The EC obliges all political parties to follow its "roadmap" to make the election fair and equal. It claims the rules will reduce the influence of money politics.

Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukhagganond said the EC welcomed comments on whether certain rules were too strict. However, the EC was serious about preventing electoral fraud and the use of dirty or underhand tactics.

Television stations were still allowed to report on politics, but they must not feature specific politicians to the detriment of their opponents. Candidates should not be favoured over others just because they have more money, Apichart said.

He said the EC had tried its best to make the regulations acceptable to the people. It had tried to ease some rules that might have been too tough, while at the same time keeping others that would help to improve things. While trying to loosen the rules on campaigning, not everyone would be happy.

EC secretary-general Suthiphon Thaveechaigarn warned the parties to begin observing the campaigning rules immediately as the royal decree on the December 23 election came into effect yesterday.

Election candidates and media outlets, if convicted of campaign violations, could face a jail term of up to six months, he said.

"The rules are meant to ensure fairness so that large parties will not have an advantage over small parties," he said.

One of the key rules was that television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties in the race if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

The regulations on airtime are prescribed by respective provincial panels, each of which is chaired by a provincial election committee chairman.

Each local government is responsible for supervising campaign billboards and other forms of public displays.

Candidates are allowed to use mobile units to broadcast campaign messages but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches at a rally.

Candidates can communicate freely with their constituents via email, websites and print media.

Supapornphong said Matchima Thippatai leaders were examining if the party's current activities or future plans would violate the EC rules.

If the party found it impossible to carry on under the rules or found they made the election unfair for any party, it would officially oppose them and announce its stand to the EC.

People Power Party deputy leader Somchai Wongsawat said it would not reject the strict campaigning rules as long as the EC enforced them fairly.

"My party will not resort to underhand tactics to sway votes in spite of the stringent rules."

Somchai called on the EC not to play favourites. He said the party had issued a handbook reminding its candidates to observe the 45 guidelines on campaigning and avoid being disqualified.

Strictly speaking...

1 All campaign billboards and posters are only allowed to be set up in spots designated by the EC, which will also have the power to rule on the size of posters.

2 Only the EC is authorised to allow stages or forums for candidates to publicly campaign, both in the capital and provinces. Privately run associations and educational institutions are not allowed to provide such forums without permission from the EC.

3 The EC will prescribe air-time on television and radio for all parties.

4 Candidates are only allowed to use cars to advertise campaign messages, but are banned from converting vehicles into a platform for making campaign speeches in front of a rally.

5 Candidates must notify the EC about expenditure by campaign staff.

6 Candidates are banned from presiding over ceremonies such as merit making, or giving donations or charity events.

7 Campaign parades with music are banned from the registration day.

8 Television stations must allocate equal airtime to all parties if they invite candidates to appear on their programmes.

Source: The Nation - 26 October 2007

These rules will certainly help the big money MP and vote buying parties. Not surprised that PPP are not complaining too loudly.

like they are going to obey the rules

LOL

[Jai Dee]

Police gather intelligence during general election

The Royal Thai Police dispatches police officers to gather intelligence during the general election and announces that no movements from gunmen and mafia have been reported.

Police Spokesman Pol.Lt.Gen.Pongsapat Pongchareon (พงศพัศ พงษ์เจริญ) says the police have dispatched officers from the Special Branch to areas with fierce competition among candidates for members of the parliament. Local police officers will help monitor the situation to safeguard MP candidates.

The spokesman adds that the police commissioner-general has instructed all police officers to stay vigilant against chaos, bombing, and terrorism.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

BMA prepares for the general election

The Bangkok Governor, Mr. Apirak Kosayodhin (อภิรักษ์ โกษะโยธิน), has assigned the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to be prepared for the upcoming polls. He has also reminded civil servants to be impartial.

During a meeting held among the BMA officials, Mr. Apirak has emphasized the importance of all civil servants playing neutral roles in the December 23rd election, urging them to abide by the laws for fairness and transparency of the election. Mr. Apirak also says the BMA is ready to support and cooperate with the Election Commission (EC) of Thailand. He says he expects the voter turnout to be as high as 70 percent.

Mr. Apirak notes that for those who wish to vote elsewhere instead of their residential areas, all the 50 districts in the capital are now available for the registration from now until November 22nd, 2007.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

PNET calls on EC to revise election regulations

The People’s Network for Election (PNET) calls on the Election Commission (EC) of Thailand to listen to opinions from all sides. Thus, the opinions would help the EC in revising its election regulations.

PNET member Somchai Srisuthiyakorn (สมชัย ศรีสุทธิยากร) says the regulations for the coming general election, scheduled to be held on December 23rd this year, are different from the past. He says they are too strict are not good for the election atmosphere, and they could possibly prevent a free and fair election.

According to the election regulations, political parties running in the polls must only use the EC’s forum to announce their policies. They also ban advertisements in all forms of media and require the media to equally interview candidates for members of the parliament. Parties' billboards and posters must come in the size designed by the EC.

Mr. Somchai also expresses concern over vote-buying and election canvassers, and he requests the EC to find preventive measures for these issues.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

Army Commander affirms neutrality in election

Army Commander in Chief General Boonsrang Niumpradit (บุญสร้าง เนียมประดิษฐ์) responded to rumors that military personnel have coerced local residents on voting priorities that he had not heard of the situation before. He affirms though that the Royal Thai Army’s stance on the election is neutral and its only policy is that soldiers and their families be urged to vote. He also says if the Election Commission (EC) of Thailand would ask for assistance from the army, it would comply nonetheless.

General Boonsarng also commented on Council for National Security member General Winai Pattiyakul’s (วินัย ภัททิยกุล) son joining the Democrat Party that he had no opinion on the matter but viewed that it was still within his rights to join any party.

In the same situation General Boonsrang stated that it is former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s right to act as a counselor to the People’s Power Party and no action will be taken against him.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

DPM Sonthi dismisses rumors that military officers dispatched to monitor election

Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security, Gen.Sonthi Boonyaratglin, dismisses rumors that he has dispatched military officers to areas across the country to monitor the general election at the end of the year.

The People Power Party has claimed that military officers have gathered information about candidates for member of the parliament in constituencies in various provinces. However, Gen.Sonthi says the officers have been dispatched by the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) to suppress drug trafficking, illegal immigration, and piracy.

The deputy premier affirms the dispatch of military officers has nothing to do with confidential documents exposed to the media by the leader of the People Power Party . The documents allegedly concern the Council for National Security (CNS)’s order to bar the party from the general election at the end of the year.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

PM did not dispatch army to supervise election

The Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Gen. Surayud Chulanont (สุรยุทธ์ จุลานนท์), says he did not deploy military officers to different areas to administer the election.

Gen. Surayud says the army officials are working as usual along Thailand’s border areas. He says they can provide explanations on various issues or create a better understanding with the public. However, he insists that they have not threatened the general public or political parties, as it would be illegal.

As for the survey pointing out that most respondents were unaware of the general election date, the Prime Minister says public relations activities on this issue will have to be carried out continually. He also believes problems would not arise.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

Mrs Sodsri says those who oppose election rules can file lawsuit against EC

Election Commissioner Sodsri Satayathum (สดศรี สัตยธรรม) says those who oppose the Election Commission (EC)’s election rules can file lawsuit against it with the Constitution Court. She affirms the rules can not be amended as they have already been published in the Royal Gazette. However, the political parties can request the Constitution Court to postpone the general election.

Mrs Sodsri says EC earlier invited all political parties to discuss the election rules and they did not say anything to oppose the rules.

Meanwhile, Election Commissioner Sumeth Ubanisakorn (สุเมธ อุปนิสากร) says EC will hold a meeting today afternoon with the media to listen to opinions concerning the election rules. The meeting will also discuss whether the rules are against the laws. He also affirms the rules will make all candidates for member of the parliament compete in the general election equally.

In response to a poll suggesting that a majority of people does not know when the election is scheduled to take place, Mr Sumeth says EC and the government will cooperate in conducting public relations campaigns to inform people of the election date. However, he says EC has yet received budget to carry out the campaigns.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

DPM of Internal Security denies approaching former EC officer to be election advisor

Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont invited three deputy prime ministers comprising of Deputy Prime Minister of Internal Security General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, Deputy Prime Minister of Economics Kosit Panpiemras and Deputy Prime Minister of Social Affairs Paiboon Wattanasiritham to join him for lunch.

After lunch General Sonthi declined to give comments on discussions the ministers had. He also denied rumors that former Election Commissioner Sawasdee Chotipanich had been approached to take the role of advisor in the upcoming election. He stated that rumors were completely false.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 October 2007

[Mid]

However, the political parties can request the Constitution Court to postpone the general election.

them's big guns .............................

[Jai Dee]

Voters just don't know

Nearly 40 per cent of respondents in a survey conducted by Assumption University's Abac Poll still don't even know that the general election is firmly scheduled for December 23.

The poll – conducted among 2,993 persons in Bangkok and the surrounding areas – showed that only 60.3 per cent of the respondents knew that the election would be held on December 23, while all the other 39.7 per cent did not know.

On the other hand, more than half of the respondents -- 54.3 per cent -- said they already had favourite political parties in mind.

More from the Bangkok Post here.

[Gimbo]

Yup, wife had no clue there was going to be an election, and she watches the news every night.

[Jai Dee]

EC to ease campaign restrictions

The Election Commission (EC) yesterday softened its stance on election directives that restrict the media in its coverage of political parties and their election campaigns.

EC chairman Apichart Sukhagganond said the EC was willing to amend the directives, which had not yet been enacted. The EC is not empowered to amend enacted law, especially Article 59 and Article 60 of the MP Election Act and the Senator Selection Act. That responsibility rests with the National Legislative Assembly.

Apichart said the EC would amend the controversial directives within this week.

Since last week the media has been calling on the EC to remove the clause that requires it to give equal air time or coverage to all parties.

EC commissioner Sodsri Sattayatham, who opposed the amendment of the directives, did not attend the meeting. Apichart, however, said the decision reached yesterday was legitimate, as the EC meeting had a quorum of four commissioners.

He was speaking after a public hearing attended by political parties and the media. The EC agreed in principle that its directive requiring the media to invite all parties to be included in coverage or programmes was impractical.

The EC was under pressure to remove the clauses and allow media outlets to use their own judgement on which politicians and parties they wanted to cover.

EC commissioner Prapan Naikowit said there was no need to amend directives regarding media programmes. The media did not need to cover all parties, all the time. It could focus on certain campaign aspects such as economic policy by providing coverage for parties that have announced such policies.

The meeting voiced concern about the ban on using trucks as makeshift stages for campaigning, with parties saying they feared the EC's stages would not attract public attention.

The EC said parties could address the public from trucks but would not be allowed to park permanently in one spot.

The EC vowed to increase the number of election campaign stages and would consider allowing parties to use their own stages.

Source: The Nation - 30 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

EC will ease campaigning regulations

Election Commission (EC) Chairman Apichart Sukakanont has revealed that as many parties have called for the ease of many regulations set for campaigning for the upcoming election it will compromise by amending minor directives which have not yet been published in the Government Gazette. Mr. Apichart affirms though that, that main laws that were already published in the gazette cannot be altered at the moment.

One of the major amendments to the regulations will be the allowing of media outlets to use their own discretion as to which parties can campaign, and for how long. Originally the EC has stated that all parties must have equal face time in any one media outlet. The media would now also be allowed to present each party as it saw fit without being required to present their campaign advertisements.

The EC will continue to discuss several other issues including a request to allow for campaign trucks with stages and adding additional public forums.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 October 2007

[Jai Dee]

DPM Sonthi calls on Interior Ministry to support general election

Deputy Prime Minister overseeing national security affairs, Gen.Sonthi Boonyaratglin, calls on the Ministry of Interior to support the general election by raising awareness among people to make them see that a political crisis will occur again if they vote for wrong people.

The deputy premier delivered speech to governors and high-ranking officials of the Ministry of Interior at Santi Maitree (สันติไมตรี) Building, the Government House, calling for them to expedite solutions to poverty at the grassroot level.

Gen.Sonthi says he would like to see Thai people unite and love one another. As for the general election, he requests the Ministry of Interior to play an important role in suppressing electoral fraud and vote buying.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 October 2007

[sriracha john]

Martial law lifted in 221 districts

The cabinet decided on Tuesday to lift martial law in 221 out of 400 districts throughout Thailand. According to Thawil Pliensri, deputy secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC), martial law remains in 179 districts in 31 provinces. He said martial law is not lifted in those districts as they are

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=123133

[hammered]

At the moment with the election rules etc there seems to be a common tactic which consists of set the most over the top set of rules and relent slightly allowing a still severe set to remain but where everyone breathes a sigh of relief that at least the completely out of control ones are gone and ends up willingly accepting a still stringent set. This tactic of going to far and then relentuing slightly is a common theme iof the current governmnet/Junta/appointed bodies in everything form internal laws (security law), international stuff (money regs and foreign ownership), and politics (ban the 111 and then redfine the ban so they can do a bit of politicking) etc.

[IMA_FARANG]

Sorry couldn't resist.

Does this make Thailand the technological vote buying hub for Asia?

Regards

Regarding vote buying.....I recall an election some years ago where a headman of a village actually advertised in a Thai newspaper that he had a number of votes from his villagers available, and would those political parties who wished these votes please contact him with details of the price that would be paid. Of course, someone in BKK wrote to the Bangkok Post saying how terrible that was, and it was evidence again that Thai's were too stupid to know what real democracy was. Well somehow that response got back to the village headman who responded as follows: I know perfectly well that it is a sad thing to do to sell our votes, but the politicians only pay attention to us at election time, and all their promises are soon forgotten. So I think that if I manage to get enough money for our votes, we can have enough money to pay for a doctor and a clinic in our village ourselves. That is why I am selling our votes, so we can get a clinic for our village and our children.

You know, when I read his reply, I realized that headman knew more about how democracy actually works in practice than most of the so-called experts that criticised him.

[sriracha john]

Poll festivities start today

Parades planned by some parties, but stars not the best for us today, Samak concedes

Politicians and election officials are all set for the start today of the long-awaited registration of party-list candidates, with pomp and spectacle expected at the Thai-Japanese Youth Sports Stadium in Din Daeng.

All major political parties contesting the December 23 poll made their final arrangements yesterday for the signing-up of their members for proportional voting and the drawing of candidacy numbers.

The parties' key figures and candidates plan to arrive at the venue before the registration desks open at 8.30am so they can draw lots for a fair designation of candidacy numbers.

Matchima Thipataya Party leader Prachai Leophairatana said he would lead his 80 party-list candidates to register in style with a grand procession of 10 symbolic lions and dragons for good luck. He hoped his party would get "No 1" when he draws for its candidacy number.

However, Matchima Thipataya ran into trouble after the Election Commission resolved to endorse the change of its name from Matchima, but refused to sanction the new executive board led by Prachai. Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukhag-ganond said the refusal was because Matchima Thipataya's meeting to elect board members was carried out publicly, and the Political Parties Act required such meetings to be conducted confidentially.

He suggested the party hold a new meeting conforming to the law and in the meantime refrain from promoting Prachai as its leader.

As for the troupes of performers expected to accompany the candidates, he warned that overdoing the pageantry could get political parties into trouble.

"That could be construed as 'entertainment'," he said.

People Power Party leader Samak Sundaravej said he would lead his party's candidates even though astrological signs suggested today would not be auspicious.

Samak said he preferred not to have a large group accompanying the candidates. "However, we can't upset our supporters by barring them."

The Democrat Party would send its leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and chief adviser Chuan Leekpai to head up its squad of candidates. They would also join a five-member team in drawing for the candidacy number, a party source said.

It remained unclear whether the Democrats would bring along any form of entertainment to cheer their entourage.

The Ruam Jai Thai Chat Pattana Party plans a parade of supporters and long-drum dancers. Its leader Chettha Thanajaro, secretary-general Pradit Pattaraprasit and deputy leader Anek Laothamatas would represent the party in the lot drawing, a party source said.

The Election Commission was geared up to take applications from party-list candidates from today until Sunday, its secretary-general Suthiphon Thaveechaigarn said.

"All preparations have been completed and the EC is ready to welcome candidates as well as their supporters and will allow any festivities, such as long-drum processions and dragon dances, to enliven the registration process," he said.

The EC expected to complete checking candidacy qualifications within 10 days of registration, he said.

All party lists for the eight constituencies nationwide have to be filed with the central registration centre in Bangkok, while candidates for direct voting will register next week from Monday to Friday at their constituency centres.

Of the 480 House seats up for grabs, 80 will be decided by proportionate votes cast in eight constituencies, each with 10 seats, and 400 will be allocated via direct votes cast in 197 constituencies, each with one to three seats depending on the number of voters.

Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner Maj General Suporn Phansua said 200 police would be deployed to maintain peace and order at Din Daeng.

"We will allow supporters of each party to stand only in the allocated area. There will be metal barriers separating them to prevent brawls,'' he said.

- The Nation

[plachon]

Yup, wife had no clue there was going to be an election, and she watches the news every night.

Surely you don't think she actually listens and absorbs while she watches the flickering screen? TV's in most households are only there for entertainment purposes only, so any practical information like the date of an election or who the PM of Australia might be, is purely superfluous data. It's not much different in most UK h/holds I'd imagine. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule, but don't be lulled into thinking that people who "watch" the news have the first clue as to what's going on in the world outside their own four walls. The TV soaps, pop concerts and gameshows provide all the diversion that's necessary from the dull here and now. Why be distracted by dull facts like election dates?

[Tony Clifton]

Oh boy, I knew it could get lower than what we're seeing now but a new record was broken today!

I was asked to accompany one of the local politicians in his door to door campaign just now as I was told I am apparently quite popular in the area.

I'm trying to figure out what advantages there would be for him to be walking around with a foreigner who can't even vote himself.

Somehow reminds me when school management used to order me to stand in the schoolyard, even though I was already quite busy working, so that parents picking up their children could see all the glory of that crappy family run school business that a farang blessed with his unwilling presence.

Edited November 7, 2007 by Tony Clifton

[John K]

Oh boy, I knew it could get lower than what we're seeing now but a new record was broken today!

I was asked to accompany one of the local politicians in his door to door campaign just now as I was told I am apparently quite popular in the area.

I'm trying to figure out what advantages there would be for him to be walking around with a foreigner who can't even vote himself.

Somehow reminds me when school management used to order me to stand in the schoolyard, even though I was already quite busy working, so that parents picking up their children could see all the glory of that crappy family run school business that a farang blessed with his unwilling presence.

Popular? That would not have anything to do with all the pregnant women in your neighborhood you spoke about in the population crisis thread would it Tony?

Sorry Tony, I could not resist that one.

[Tony Clifton]

Oh boy, I knew it could get lower than what we're seeing now but a new record was broken today!

I was asked to accompany one of the local politicians in his door to door campaign just now as I was told I am apparently quite popular in the area.

I'm trying to figure out what advantages there would be for him to be walking around with a foreigner who can't even vote himself.

Somehow reminds me when school management used to order me to stand in the schoolyard, even though I was already quite busy working, so that parents picking up their children could see all the glory of that crappy family run school business that a farang blessed with his unwilling presence.

*update*

Following this, my wife and I had a discussion on the subject, both not agreeing with the idea to begin with.

So I decided I'd head down to my Thai friend's (him also caught in the middle) shop to discuss the dangers of me doing this, work permit issue, involved in politics when not a voting citizen, possible opponent's rage that could get me/us shot or seriously injured or killed somehow. One of the opponent groups has been working with the Kam Nan Poh gang for years.

We sat down with coffee, I was holding the politician's pamphlet and getting ready to explain my position when he grabbed the pamphlet and pointed at the politician explaining that he has not been allowed to run as he did note vote at the last election, same went for one of his subordinates.

Needless to say that Tony is relieved.

Edited November 15, 2007 by Tony Clifton

[hammered]

Oh boy, I knew it could get lower than what we're seeing now but a new record was broken today!

I was asked to accompany one of the local politicians in his door to door campaign just now as I was told I am apparently quite popular in the area.

I'm trying to figure out what advantages there would be for him to be walking around with a foreigner who can't even vote himself.

Somehow reminds me when school management used to order me to stand in the schoolyard, even though I was already quite busy working, so that parents picking up their children could see all the glory of that crappy family run school business that a farang blessed with his unwilling presence.

*update*

Following this, my wife and I had a discussion on the subject, both not agreeing with the idea to begin with.

So I decided I'd head down to my Thai friend's (him also caught in the middle) shop to discuss the dangers of me doing this, work permit issue, involved in politics when not a voting citizen, possible opponent's rage that could get me shot or seriously injured or killed somehow. One of the opponent groups has been working with the Kam Nan Poh gang for years.

We sat down with coffee, I was holding the politician's pamphlet and getting ready to explain my position when he grabbed the pamphlet and pointed at the politician explaining that he has not been allowed to run as he did note vote at the last election, same went for one of his subordinates.

Needless to say that Tony is relieved.

Nice one Tony

[Jai Dee]

Deputy Commander of the National Police has submitted operation plans to keep peace for representative elections

Deputy Commander of the National Police General Vichian Potpohsri (วิเชียร พจน์โพธิ์ศรี) serving as Director of peace keeping operations for House of Representative candidates joined by his committee conducted a meeting to instruct police officers about operation plans for keeping peace in the upcoming representative elections. His first meeting addressed officers from Provincial Police Region 5. Afterwards he traveled to inspect election posts in the jurisdiction of the Provincial Police Region 5.

Police General Vichian emphasized that all police must remain neutral in their work concerning the elections and focus their efforts on deterring vote-buying. He also instructed the officers to organize and prepare units to protect incidents during the Election Day.

The Deputy Commander revealed that 2-3 candidates have already applied for protection and have had their requests answered. He told officers attending the meeting to fully devote their efforts to preemptively ridding ill-intentioned individuals before they can cause danger to candidates and Election Day.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 20 November 2007

[Jai Dee]

Big parties run election campaign in Uttaradit

Member of Parliament (MP) candidates from four major political parties, namely Democrat, Matchima Thipataya, People Power and Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana, are busily running their election campaigns in four main marketplaces in the lower northern province of Uttaradit.

MP candidates from four big parties are distributing leaflets while parading to different public places in Uttaradit, to convince the locals to vote for them in the upcoming general election, scheduled to be held on December 23rd this year. Many contenders are traveling on pickup trucks equipped with speakers so they can present their policies to the pedestrians and residents in the municipality of this northern province.

However, there has been no apparent movement from small parties, such as Thai Rum Ruay, Free Thai and Prachamati.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 November 2007

[Jai Dee]

Non-voters to lose 3 rights

Pol. Col. Danai Lekhavichit (ดนัย เลขาวิจิตร), the Chairman of the Phrae Provincial Election Commission (EC), says the eligible voters who do not cast their ballots in the upcoming general election scheduled to be held on December 23rd this year without reasonable excuses will lose three personal rights as stated in the Election Act.

Pol. Col. Danai says the non-voters will lose the right to submit complaints against the elections, the right to register themselves as MPs, Senators and other administrative officials and the right to become village headmen. Therefore, Pol. Col. Danai is urging eligible voters to take part in the coming polls, if they do not want to lose these rights.

However, people who could not vote on the election date can report their reasons to the Election Commission (EC) seven days in advance.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 November 2007