Don't ignore local polls

On Sunday, 47 million voters across 76 provinces will elect mayors and legislators for 4,994 so-called "Or Bor Tor".

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Known officially as Tambon Administrative Organisations (TAOs), Or Bor Tor are the smallest electoral units in the country — but they are often the closest to local communities. Usually located in rural areas, TAOs manage basic public services such as tap water, small local roads, garbage collection, and sanitation.

Approximately 60% of Thais live in TAO electorates. These local voters are politically active. In past elections, many return to their hometowns to vote because the Election Commission does not provide early voting for those working in other provinces. In the last election, voter turnout reached 74% — matching the national average.