With Thailand’s general election approaching, the Election Commission has imposed stringent regulations banning the sale and distribution of alcohol and all forms of campaign activity during legally defined blackout periods around advance voting and election day.

The prohibition on selling, distributing or providing alcoholic beverages nationwide will take effect from 6:00 PM on January 31 until 6:00 PM on February 1, covering advance polling, and will be repeated from 6:00 PM on February 7 until 6:00 PM on February 8 for the main election.

Under the Election Act, violations carry penalties of up to six months’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both, and apply equally to businesses, social gatherings and individuals operating within election precincts or public spaces during the restricted windows.

The Commission’s rules also prohibit campaigning, including distribution of political materials, use of sound amplification, endorsements or any activity that could influence voter choices, both in person and via online media, during the same pre-voting and election periods.

Officials have underscored that these measures are intended to ensure fairness, reduce undue influence and maintain order during the polling process, urging the public and candidates alike to comply fully.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Royal Thai Police, have been instructed to enforce the bans, alongside broader election security and traffic management plans as advance voting begins.

The Commission has also reiterated mechanisms for reporting suspected violations, such as vote buying or prohibited campaigning, through official hotlines and mobile applications, with protections for confidential whistleblower information and financial incentives for substantiated reports.

As Thailand prepares for voting, these rules form part of a wider effort to uphold legal standards and public confidence in the electoral process.