Thailand: NCPO to allow parties limited political activities

Event

In power since the 2014 military coup, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) approved on August 28 the partial lifting of the ban on political activities, in order for parties to prepare for the general election set for February 2019. At this stage, election campaigning is still not allowed. In December, the NCPO is expected to lift Order No 3/2015 prohibiting the political gathering of more than five people.

Context

On May 2014, the country's powerful military establishment took (one more time) control of government. Article 44 of the interim constitution gives large powers to General Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the current Prime Minister and the head of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). Since then, there had been popular demand for free and fair- general elections to be organized.

Advice

Individuals present in this Southeast Asian kingdom are advised to stay away from any protests, political gatherings, demonstrations and marches (all prohibited by the authorities), as they may turn violent. Please be advised that Lèse-majesté (criticism of the monarchy in any form) is a crime severely sanctioned in Thailand.