Bangkok: The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) has clarified its stance on the conduct and dissemination of election polls, emphasizing that while conducting polls is not prohibited, their publication is restricted within a specific timeframe.
According to Thai News Agency, the ECT announced on January 20th that election polls, whether conducted on-site or online, are allowed. However, the results of these polls cannot be disseminated within seven days leading up to an election. This rule aims to maintain fairness and prevent any undue influence on the voters' decision-making process as they approach the polls.
Pol. Lt. Col. Chanin Noi Lek, Deputy Secretary-General of the Election Commission, highlighted that while public opinion surveys regarding elections are permissible at any time, the key restriction lies in their dissemination. He further stated that any polls lacking scientific validity or those that are manipulated are strictly forbidden by the ECT. This measure is intended to ensure the integrity and reliability of the information that reaches the public during the election period.