The Political election Commission (EC) needs to clarify its new election campaign rules because they are very ambiguous, House Speaker Chuan Leekpai said yesterday.
The particular EC said the regulations, announced on Sept 22, should serve as a guide for political celebrations and candidates, so they know what they can plus cannot do during the 180-day campaign period from Sept 24 until election time on May 7.
Mister Chuan said he’s talked to MPs from all parties and advised them to be careful not to do anything which could be interpreted as breaching advertising campaign regulations, lest they wish to make themselves vulnerable to attacks from their politics opponents.
Asked whether he or she was personally worried about the unclear marketing campaign regulations, Mr Chuan said he had not been worried as their recent trips were not meant to canvass votes.
With many people now struggling with floods, Mr Chuan said MPs should be particularly careful regarding handing out goods or even making promises.
He mentioned it would be better for them to wait for the EC to clarify what they can or are not able to do.
For example , MPs are unsure if they could send a wreath to a funeral or give money towards the bereaved to make value, he said.
“So, the particular EC should make it clear, because MPs have asked about this. As well as the public should realize that right now, their MPs may not be able to make merit or set a wreath at a funeral, ” this individual said.