Pheu Thai and Democrats: New EC rules vague

Vague regulations may lead to abuse and benefit self-serving parties, Pheu Thai warns

The term of the current government runs until March 23 but some parties fear even more confusion over campaign rules if Parliament is dissolved before then. (File photo)

The term of the current government runs until March 23 but some parties fear even more confusion over advertising campaign rules if Parliament is dissolved prior to then. (File photo)

Political figures are scratching their own heads about what they could and can’t fag the run-up to another election, with an older opposition figure contacting the new rules introduced by the Election Payment (EC) vague and confusing.

Sutin Klungsang, resistance whip and deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party, said on Saturday that the regulations published in the Regal Gazette on restricted campaign activities were with a lack of detail, open to inconsistant interpretations and could cause uncertainty when put into practice.

The EC has set Might 7, 2023 because the tentative election day, based on the assumption which the current coalition federal government will see out the full term that runs until March 23. On Tuesday it also published a comprehensive timetable of key times leading up to polling day.

Mr Sutin said it was unclear how the guidelines would apply in case Parliament is dissolved before its term is up. He also pointed out that no certain dimensions were established for campaign posters, leaving an starting for interference between candidates.

All MPs want to comply with the rules, but ambiguity may create opportunities for self-serving action, he additional.

The Pheu Thai associate suggested the commission rate organise a workshop for political events where it could explain the election guidelines and field any questions.

Democrat Party head Jurin Laksanawisit voiced similar concerns, saying many parties have previously started taking straight down their campaign posters for fear of violating the regulations.

Although the EC has the authority to enforce election rules, clarity is needed so that parties intent upon compliance can act accordingly, he mentioned on Saturday.

Mr Jurin, who is also deputy prime minister plus commerce minister, said he has instructed his party members to analyze the new regulations and be sure appropriate conduct.

Unlike in past elections whenever 30 to forty days were given to campaigning, the new selection law stipulates a 180-day pre-election period during which numerous regulations apply. These control everything from flood relief donations to strategy posters.