School executives, teachers told to stay politically neutral

Sudarat Keyuraphan,prime ministerial candidate for the Pheu Thai Party, is warmly received by students and local residents during the party's election campaign in Ubon Ratchathani province on Monday. (File photo)

Executives and teachers at all public schools have been asked to stay politically neutral -- or face disciplinary action.

Boonyarak Yodphet, secretary-general of the Basic Office of Education Commission (Obec), said he has asked directors of all educational zones -- and executives and teachers at more than 30,000 schools under Obec's jurisdiction -- not to express support for any particular candidates or parties in the upcoming election.

Since they are government officials, all teachers and executives must refrain from giving any political comments in public, the Obec chief said. Expressing their views could impact certain political parties.

“If teachers are found not to have stayed neutral, they will face disciplinary action. The degree of punishment will depend on how much damage they cause, but could be harsh. Obec will investigate immediately,’’ said Mr Boonyarak.

His comments came after a meeting with directors of all education zones and executives of more than 30,000 schools run by Obec. The meeting was held via video conference on Monday.