From 18:00 on January 31, 76 provinces of Thailand for 24 hours introduced a “dry law” before the elections: violators face a fine or imprisonment.
As of 6 pm Friday, January 31, 76 provinces in Thailand have imposed a 24-hour “dry law” ahead of local elections, with violators facing fines or jail time.
A 24-hour ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages will be in effect in 76 provinces from 6 pm Friday to 6 am. Saturday, ahead of local elections in Thailand on Saturday. The restriction affects popular tourist destinations such as Phuket and Chiang Mai.
The Election Commission (EC) reminds store owners in provinces where elections will be held to comply with the ban. Violators face a fine of up to 10,000 Thai baht or imprisonment of up to six months, or both punishments simultaneously.
On Saturday, elections for heads of provincial administrative organizations (PAOs) and PAO councilors will be held nationwide. On Saturday, people in the provinces will elect their representatives to local governments. This is an essential stage in Thailand’s political life, determining the region’s future development.
Bangkok and Pattaya are exempt from the ban due to their special administrative status. They hold their own elections at other times. However, the Banglamung areas adjacent to Pattaya are subject to Prohibition because they are part of Chonburi province. This differentiation is due to the peculiarities of Thailand’s administrative-territorial structure.
The ban on the sale of alcohol was introduced to ensure order and prevent possible alcohol-related incidents during the elections. According to the authorities, this measure contributes to a calm and safe environment for voting. Similar practices are used in many countries around the world.
Travelers planning to visit Bangkok or Pattaya this weekend can purchase alcoholic beverages without hindrance. Travelers going to other regions of Thailand should consider the current restrictions and be advised to stock up on the necessary drinks in advance or postpone their purchase until the end of the ban.
The Election Commission is actively informing the public about the upcoming elections and the restrictions in place. The authorities strive to ensure maximum voter turnout and transparency of the electoral process. Local elections are an essential tool of democracy, allowing Thai citizens to influence the development of their regions. The outcome of the elections will determine who will represent the interests of provincial residents in local government and what decisions will be made in the coming years.
The introduction of a temporary ban on the sale of alcohol in Thailand aims to ensure order and security during important political events. Despite some inconvenience to tourists and locals, it facilitates the elections in a calm and controlled environment. Life in the provinces is expected to return to normal once the elections are over.
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