Voters urged to heed Royal advice and vote for ‘good people’
The Election Commission (EC) chief and top military brass called on voters to remember King Rama IX’s advice when electing their representative.
EC president Ittiporn Boonpracong said eligible voters and election officials should consider the late King’s advice that “good people” should rule the country, and “bad people” prevented from accessing power.
“I want all voters to bear in mind the announcement from the Royal Household Bureau,” he said, referring to an announcement issued by the Palace at the command of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn on Saturday night.
In the announcement, His Majesty quoted the advice his father issued in December 1989, saying: “In national administration, there are both good and bad people. Nobody can make everybody good. To maintain peace in the country, we cannot make everybody good, but we can support good people. We must let good people rule and control bad people, so they have no power and are unable to cause trouble and chaos.”
Army chief General Apirat Kongsompong urged voters on Sunday to consider His Majesty’s advice, saying that following this advice will keep the country peaceful.
Armed forces supreme commander General Ponpipat Benyasri echoed Apirat, saying the military has called on voters to elect “good people” to become their MPs.
“The military adheres to the Royal advice and relevant regulations and orders,” the general said when asked about the military’s position on the election. He was speaking after casting his vote in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district.
Kanchanaburi Governor Jirakiat Phumsawat also called on voters to consider His Majesty’s advice, adding “I believe Kanchanaburi people will vote for ‘good people’ to run the country.” He also said he expects a voter turnout of 70 to 80 per cent.