Bangkok: Dr. Joe announced a pioneering move to eliminate all campaign signs from streets and utility poles in Bangkok, emphasizing public safety and environmental concerns. This announcement marks a significant shift in election campaigning practices, aimed at reducing roadside litter and minimizing obstructions for drivers and pedestrians.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit, a prospective Bangkok Governor candidate from the People's Party, shared via his Facebook page that his campaign would refrain from using traditional campaign signs. Instead, the campaign will focus on alternative methods to communicate with the electorate, such as media campaigns, social media outreach, and increased walking campaigns in local communities. This initiative is driven by a commitment to improve the urban environment and ensure safer streets for Bangkok residents.
Mr. Sathavorawichit highlighted the drawbacks of conventional campaign signs, which often lead to clutter and pose potential hazards, especially during the rainy season. He emphasized that this change does not require him to be elected first, as it is a proactive step toward a greener and more navigable city. The People's Party plans to use innovative communication strategies to reach voters, including vinyl banners in markets and leveraging community members as natural campaign workers to disseminate their message effectively.
While the People's Party will forgo campaign signs for the gubernatorial race, they will retain a limited number for Bangkok City Council candidates to avoid voter confusion. This selective use of signs reflects a strategic approach, balancing the need for voter awareness with environmental conservation efforts. The party remains committed to reducing the overall number of campaign signs, especially in urban areas like Bangkok, while recognizing their necessity in other regions with different geographic challenges.