The campaign was officially opened yesterday (Jan 8) at Muang Thalang School in Thepkrasattri.
Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam presided over the opening ceremony, joined by Oraphin Achiwasuk, Director of the Phuket branch of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT Phuket), along with heads of government departments, OrBorTor election committee members, school administrators, students and local residents.
Mr Suwit said local elections play a vital role in Thailand’s democratic system, noting that Subdistrict Administrative Organisations are the level of government closest to the people.
He explained that voting allows residents to collectively determine the direction of local development so that policies and projects better reflect the needs of communities.
Ms Orathin said the ‘Big Day’ campaign aims to raise public awareness and understanding of the election process, improve the dissemination of accurate information, and encourage as many eligible voters as possible to exercise their right to vote.
She added that the ultimate goal is to ensure the elections are conducted honestly, transparently and fairly.
Activities at the event included the distribution of election-related information, as well as a campaign march and public awareness parade to symbolise the start of a coordinated province-wide effort to mobilise voters.
Officials said similar activities will continue across Phuket as part of the campaign to boost voter turnout ahead of the OrBorTor elections.
ECT Phuket on Monday confirmed that an alcohol sales ban will be enforced during the election period. The ban will be in effect from 6pm on Saturday (Jan 10) until 6pm on Sunday (Jan 11), in accordance with election law.
The elections and related alcohol sales ban will apply in Koh Kaew; Mai Khao; Thepkrasattri; in the beach areas of Cherng Talay, including Bang Tao; and Kamala.
Polling stations will be open from 8am to 5pm, and voters are required to cast their ballots at the polling station where their name is officially registered.