INTEGRATING THE PRINCIPLES OF APARIHANIYADHAMMA FOR PROMOTING POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF THE PEOPLE. IN EXERCISING THE RIGHT TO ELECT ADMINISTRATORS AND MEMBERS OF THE MUEANG YAO SUB-DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY COUNCIL AT HANGCHAT DISTRICT IN LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this study are: 1) to examine the level of political participation among the public in exercising their voting rights for the election of local executives and council members in Mueang Yao Subdistrict, Hang Chat District, Lampang Province; 2) to compare public opinions on political participation in voting rights, classified by personal factors; and 3) to integrate the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma to promote political participation.

The findings of the research are as follows: 1) The level of political participation in exercising voting rights for local executives and council members in Mueang Yao Subdistrict was found to be high; 2) The comparison of opinions revealed that age had an impact on opinions, while gender, education level, occupation, and monthly income had no significant effect; and 3) The integration of the Aparihaniyadhamma principles to enhance political participation revealed the following recommendations: 1) organizing public forums for dialogue, 2) establishing clear meeting regulations, 3) strict adherence to the law, 4) respect for differing opinions, 5) promoting inclusive participation regardless of gender, 6) respecting the sanctity of polling stations, and 7) electing morally upright leaders.