the process of the general electrion. But dangers were seen in this approach. it was regarded by some as a Bangkok- based attempt to teach villager how to vote. Yet, as has already been discussed in relation to the March election, villagers do vote knowingly, rationally and in their own interests. Also, with a much higher voter turnout in the rural areas than in Bangkok, some wondered if the metropolis should be the focus of Pollwatch attention. In addition, for Pollwatch to be involved in defining "ability and moral integrity" was seen as dangerous and easily leading to taking sides. So, from the outset, there were those who considered the positive activities on which Pollwatch intended to focus to be a waste of time and somewhat dubious. although it was recognised that the public monitoring of the election worthwhile.
To emphasise its positive role, as one of its key activities Pollwatch organised a series of "Democracy Forums" throughout the country, at which candidates were given the opportunity to put forward their platforms and air their views, and to answer questions put by the people. By promoting this type of democracy, Pollwatch was attacking the old-style, corrupt, patron client type of political procedure which it wished to see replaced with a truly participatory process. For this reason, the large, wealthy political parties were not too keen to participate, and in rural areas candidates preferred to meet with their canvassers in the villages. Thus, town-based Democracy Forums in some parts of the country were poorly attended.