Bangkok: The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) has issued a strict warning against the publication of election polls during the seven days leading up to the forthcoming election, which is scheduled to take place from February 1 to February 8, 2026. This directive aims to ensure compliance with the country's legal framework governing elections.
According to Thai News Agency, the ECT has emphasized that all parties involved in the execution and dissemination of public opinion polls related to the election of members of the House of Representatives must operate with caution and adhere to legal guidelines. Section 72 of the Organic Act on the Election of Members of the House of Representatives specifically prohibits conducting public opinion polls with dishonest intent that might influence voters' decisions or discourage voting for any particular candidate. Moreover, the disclosure or dissemination of poll results during the seven days leading up to the election is strictly forbidden until the polls close on February 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
The ECT has underscored that any violations of this prohibition could result in imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of up to 6,000 baht, or both. They have requested the cooperation of all sectors in responsibly preparing and distributing election information to maintain an honest, fair, and lawful election atmosphere.