Thailand completes by-elections in 5 provinces

On March 2, by-elections took place peacefully in five Thai provinces that were blockaded by protesters during the February 2 general election.

Speaking to reporters, Election Commission (EC) member Somchai Srisuthiyakorn said 120,000 people registered to vote at 101 polling stations in five provinces south of Bangkok on March 2, including Rayong and Phetchaburi. The election went smoothly without any problems.

Thai people go to the polls on the general election day on February 2. (Source: AP)

According to Mr. Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, the final results of the election will only be announced after additional votes are conducted at all polling stations before the deadline next April.

Until the election results are known, Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra remains the acting Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, protesters on March 2 began withdrawing from most protest sites in Bangkok after announcing the end of the "blockade" of the capital.

Protesters have moved tents to central Lumpini Park, the site of protests for weeks.

In the February 2 election, more than 10,000 polling stations in 67 constituencies of 18 provinces and cities in Thailand could not open due to obstruction by protesters or lack of ballots and support staff.

Most of these polling stations are located in the capital Bangkok and the southern region, which is considered the "stronghold" of the opposition./.

According to VNA