Thailand will hold its long delayed general election early next year, as it was confirmed the military-imposed ban on political activities in the country is to be lifted.

Polls will open after months of delays on 24 February, 2019.

The ruling Thai junta confirmed it would lift the military-imposed ban on political activities, which had been slowly eased over the past few months.

The military government made the announcement in an online statement on the Royal Gazette website, clearing the way for the election.

"Political parties should be able to campaign to present their policies," the order said. It added that the junta "has decided to amend or abolish the laws" which inhibit campaigns before elections.


The junta brought in the strict ban after it took power in a 2014 coup, but allowed political parties to recruit new members and elect leaders in September.

Campaigns and street rallies had remained banned.

It claimed the restrictions were necessary to bring peace back to the streets following months of protests against the democratically elected government of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra.

The order, signed by junta chairman and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, stated: "The people and political parties will be able to take part in political activities during this period leading up to the election in accordance with the constitution."

Since 1932, Thailand has endured 12 successful military coups, as well as seven attempted coups.

Many hope next year’s election will restore democracy to the country, which is one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies.