RATCHABURI: A roadside billboard supporting Prayut Chan-o-cha as prime minister after the general election has been removed following criticism, while provincial election commission officials are investigating into the case.
Residents in tambon Wang Yen in Bang Phae district said on Thursday they saw two people removing the billboard on Phetkasem Road and then driving away Wednesday evening. They said it had been installed three days ago.
The billboard showed Gen Prayut shaking hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May with a message supporting his premiership after the poll due to his honesty and anti-corruption campaigns. The billboard was allegedly made by the "People's Network against Corruption" but a search by that name showed no hits.
The billboard was first spotted by Rangsit University president Arthit Ourairat, who posted a photo of it on his Facebook on Wednesday. Political activist Veera Somkwamkid later urged the Election Commission (EC) to take action against those putting up the billboard since election campaigning has not yet been allowed.
It was put over a banner promoting a temple fair of Wat Pikul Thong between Feb 2-10. The picture, which showed him shake hands with his British counterpart outside her office at No.10 Downing Street in London, was taken during his visit to the United Kingdom in June.
EC provincial chief in Ratchaburi Pol Lt Col Ditthachart Korsanan said on Thursday his office was finding out who was behind the advert. The office is collecting information for the EC in case complaints are filed with the poll organising agency, he said.
It was the only such billboard in the western province, he added.
The billboard shows Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his British counterpart, Theresa May, before it was torn down. (Photo by Saichol Ochkajon)