Phuket: The Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization Stadium sees intense competition as residents gradually exercise their voting rights in the ongoing provincial administrative organization elections. Many political parties are keeping a close watch on the proceedings, given the competitive nature of this election. The Election Commission has set a voter turnout target of no less than 65 percent.
According to Thai News Agency, the election for the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization president is under intense scrutiny, especially after the Prachachon Party's success in the last national election, where they secured all three constituencies. This year, the party is fielding candidates for the presidency, including a former president aiming to defend his title. Both major parties are contesting in all 24 constituencies.
The atmosphere during the morning voting hours was peaceful, with residents steadily arriving to cast their votes. Some polling stations, such as those at Ban Ku Ku Municipality School in Tambon Rassada, Amphoe Mueang, saw voters lining up even before the polls opened at 8:00 a.m. In Phuket City Municipality, polling stations in Tambon Talat Yai witnessed a considerable turnout, including elderly voters supported by their families, highlighting a community-driven desire for local development.
Similar lively scenes were observed in surrounding areas, including Thalang District, where polling stations in Pak Klok Subdistrict reported early voter turnout. Residents expressed a preference for voting early to avoid traffic congestion later in the day.
Phuket Province hosts a total of 392 polling stations, divided among Mueang Phuket District, Thalang District, and Kathu District. There are 314,408 eligible voters for the president of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization and 307,317 eligible voters for council members. The election sees three presidential candidates and 58 council candidates vying for positions across 24 constituencies.
The Phuket Election Commission is pushing for a voter turnout of at least 65 percent and has urged businesses to allow employees time to vote without considering it a day off.