More than 2.6 million people have registered for advance voting ahead of the March 24 election, the Election Commission (EC) said.
EC secretary-general Pol Col Jarungvith Phumma said yesterday that most were expected to visit polling booths on March 17 to cast their ballots as they applied early of their own volition.
If they fail to do so, they won't be able to vote on March 24 and will also surrender some basic rights, including the right to sign their name on a petition to impeach executives or members of local administrative councils as well as kamnan and village headmen, Pol Col Jarungvith said.
He said the EC has already sent their ballot papers to Thai embassies and consulates around the world.
Some 385 locations have been set aside nationwide for advance voting, he said, noting the Royal Thai Police have been contacted to help accommodate this, including traffic arrangements and increased efforts to keep the peace.
Registration for advance voting closed on Feb 19. Those registering to vote from overseas can do so from Monday to March 16.
Pol Col Jarungvith said the EC will soon start sending eligible voters documents which feature details of MP candidates, the political parties and their policies for them to study.
They will also be informed about where they can cast their ballots, Pol Col Jarungvith said.
