In a video posted online, the Phuket Provincial Office of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT Phuket) 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.
In the hope of getting the message to reach more people, the video by ECT Phuket featured Thai "influencer" Krit Boonyarung, better known online as ‘Bie The Ska’.
The election 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.
The ECT Phuket officials emphasised that local elections play a direct role in shaping daily community life, as OrBorTor are responsible for key public services including local roads, water supply, playgrounds, and community waste management.
“Politics is closer to our daily lives than many people realise,” Mr Krit said in the video, noting that each individual vote has the power to influence development and change at the community level.
The video explained that to vote, eligible voters must present a national ID card. Other government-issued identification bearing a photograph and national ID number may also be used, such as a driver’s license, passport, or government employee ID card. Digital verification is also accepted through applications including DLT QR Lens and the Disability Card application.
Voters can check their eligibility through the Smart Vote application or by calling the Election Commission hotline at 1444.
ECT Phuket also reminded the public that election-related misconduct can be reported through the application, which allows users to submit images, audio, and video evidence. Informants whose information leads to legal action may be eligible for a reward, and their identities will be kept confidential.
Officials concluded by reminding residents not to miss the opportunity to vote, stressing that the future of local communities begins with the voices of the people.