WITH the 25th House of Representatives officially dissolved, citizens in Thailand have 53 days to decide on the candidates of their choice before they return once more to the polling stations.
The dissolution of the parliament marked the beginning of the campaign season in Thailand, a time when politicians seek favor from the public and the power of the people is exercised.
Dates for application for registration of constituency candidates are from April 3 to 7 while parliamentarians have 30 days to switch parties.
The upcoming elections are expected to be a fiercely contested battle between a pro-military conservative grouping led by the incumbent Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, against the largest opposition Pheu Thai party, headed by the billionaire Shinawatra family.
This would be the second general election in Thailand since the 2014 military coup that saw former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra removed from power.
Candidates will compete for the support of 52 million eligible voters nationwide.
