Thailand to deploy 200,000 police for referendum
The Thai Government will deploy about 200,000 police in order to ensure security for a referendum on a new draft constitution slated for August 7.
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However, Thai police said violence is unlikely.
Authorities have arrested dozens of activists and politicians in the run-up to the event, some for handing out leaflets urging people to vote 'no'.
During the referendum, Thais will vote on the new draft constitution. The document is being touted by the government as a solution to the decade-long political crisis in the country.
If the constitution is approved, a general election will be held in July 2017.
An opinion poll conducted by Bangkok University revealed that nearly 90% of respondents intended to vote in the referendum and nearly half said they approve of the draft constitution.
The referendum will run from 8am to 4pm on August 7. Unofficial results will be announced at 9pm the same day while the official outcome will be released three days later.
