Former Prime Minister Influences Policy While Campaigning for Provincial Candidates
PUBLISHED: January 8, 2025
The Election Commission (EC) remains cautious in responding to concerns regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s campaign promises in northern Thailand. EC chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong indicated the need for further examination before determining if Thaksin’s statements violate election laws.
Ittiporn addressed inquiries relating to Thaksin, who is seen as the pivotal figure of the Pheu Thai Party, and the legality of his assurances to voters in upcoming provincial elections. Notably, Thaksin vowed to reduce household electricity bills to 3.70 baht per unit, marking an 11% decrease from the current 4.15 baht.
Typically, Thaksin’s announcements are quickly followed by government declarations, and his daughter, now serving as Prime Minister, confirmed plans to implement this electricity rate reduction following his statement.
Ittiporn emphasized the EC’s diligent monitoring of election campaigns across the nation, including evaluations of speeches made by Thaksin and other political entities, by committees tasked with investigating potential electoral infractions.
The EC comprises two committees: one dedicated to election law violations and another focused on breaches of political party regulations. Inquiries into the implications of coalition party campaigns referencing government policies are ongoing, with Ittiporn noting that legitimate connections to national policies are permissible while irrelevant references are not.
With election season heating up, Ittiporn reassured that no significant irregularities have emerged thus far, but vigilance will remain high as campaigning intensifies. Furthermore, he confirmed that MPs and cabinet ministers are allowed to assist candidates in local elections, provided they notify the EC of their intent to engage as campaign assistants.
