Phuket gets ready for provincial elections this Saturday
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has officially launched the final preparations for the upcoming election of members and the president of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), set to take place on February 1.
The event, the Election Big Day, was organised by the Phuket office of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT Phuket) and the PPAO. During the ceremony, Akarawat Sirithanthanakorn, PPAO Secretary and Director of Elections, provided an overview of the election preparations, confirming three candidates for the PPAO President position and 58 candidates for the PPAO Council seats.
A total of 314,408 individuals are eligible to vote for the president, while 307,317 can vote for the council seats. There will be 392 polling stations throughout the island—230 in the Mueang district, 106 in Thalang district, and 56 in Kathu district. The polls will be open from 8am to 5pm on election day.
Akarawat highlighted efforts to train polling station committees, prepare election equipment, and coordinate with relevant agencies such as electricity, security, and communications to ensure a smooth electoral process.
ECT Phuket Director Orapin Achiwasuk emphasised that the event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of voting and encourage eligible voters to participate in the election.
Governor Sophon underscored the significance of democratic participation.
“This activity reflects cooperation across all sectors to promote democracy and encourage voters to exercise their rights honestly, transparently and without vote-buying.”
Sophon also urged residents to vote at their registered polling stations on Saturday, inviting all Phuket residents to elect capable representatives for the province.
The ceremony concluded with a public relations vehicle parade to raise awareness and encourage voter turnout, with approximately 700 participants from government agencies, private organisations, and schools, reported The Phuket News.
In accordance with Thai election law, there will be a ban on alcohol sales in Phuket from 6pm on Friday, January 31, to 6pm on Saturday, February 1. This ban includes the closure of entertainment venues, bars, and clubs during this period.
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