24-hour booze ban for local elections

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In: South-East Asia

Bangkok, Pattaya excluded as they are special operational regions

PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 11: 22

The alcohol sales section at all supermarkets and shops in 76 provinces will be closed for 24 hours from 6pm on Friday due to local elections. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)
Due to local elections, the liquor sales area at all stores and outlets in 76 counties will be closed for 24 hours starting at 6pm on Friday. ( Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)

As Thailand prepares for regional elections globally, a 24-hour moratorium on all alcoholic drinks will be in effect starting at 6pm on Friday in 76 regions, including well-known tourist places like Phuket and Chiang Mai.

The ban, which will go into effect from 6pm on Friday through 6pm on Saturday, has been made known by the Election Commission (EC ) to stores in the provinces where elections are held. Violators may face fines of up to 10, 000 ringgit and/or a six-month prison statement. &nbsp,

On Saturday, provincial administration organization leaders, PAO committee members, or both candidates will be voted into the national election system.

Due to their designation as special operational regions with their own elections, Bangkok and the Pattaya city neighborhood are free from the restrictions. Areas in Bang Lamung that are close to Pattaya may be affected by the alcohol ban because they are located in Chon Buri state.