Thailand-
Sunday, December 20th, will see the first local elections held in Thailand since 2014 when a military led coup took over the government at the time.
This particular election is for chairmen and members of provincial administration organizations, including in Chonburi. Signs can be seen up around the city promoting various candidates.
However, what this means for most of our foreign readers, who cannot vote, is that an alcohol sale ban is nearly certain (although not yet officially announced, it is important to note, and probably will be closer to the election date) This alcohol sales ban will essentially see bars, nightclubs and other entertainment venues close on the evening before the election and through the election.
Thai Law prohibits the sale of alcohol during an election, regardless if the person is eligible to vote or not. Local business owners have informed The Pattaya News that some Banglamung police officials have stated to them unofficially the ban will be from around 5 or 6PM Saturday, December 19th, to the same time on December 20th. It’s important to remember, again, there has been no official notice yet. Polls are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
These elections are NOT for Pattaya City specifically, but rather the province of Chonburi. Elections for tambon administration organizations, municipalities and special administration areas (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Pattaya City) will be held at a date yet to be announced sometime next year according to Thai prime Minister Prayut Chan O’Cha.
Wittaya Khunpluem is running for re-election as the president of the Chonburi Provincial Administration Organization, a role he has held for over a decade, but is facing several political challengers, including from the progressive party candidate, Ploylapas “June” Singtothong. You can read more about that here:
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