Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved the guidelines for holding parliamentary elections and referendums on the same day, a move aimed at streamlining the electoral process. The decision includes the approval of guidelines for the general election of members of the House of Representatives and the conduct of a referendum, as proposed by the Election Commission (EC).
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the Cabinet is seeking cooperation, assistance, and support from various government entities, including ministries, departments, regional and local government agencies, and state enterprises, to implement these procedures. This initiative follows a Cabinet resolution from December 16, 2025, concerning the guidelines stemming from the dissolution of the House of Representatives and the first referendum to approve the drafting of a new constitution.
The Election Commission of Thailand emphasizes the importance of conducting the elections and referendums in a smooth, honest, fair, and lawful manner. The Cabinet has thus resolved to adhere to guidelines that ensure the efficient administration of these processes. This includes a call for all relevant ministries and agencies to support the EC in several key areas.
The guidelines stipulate that personnel involved must maintain strict neutrality, especially regarding the referendum coinciding with the general election. Additionally, there is a requirement to provide adequate venues for polling stations and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities, impairments, or the elderly, considering the increased number of polling stations.
Budgetary provisions have also been addressed, with the government and Budget Bureau tasked with allocating sufficient resources to support both the general election and the referendum. In light of potential unrest in the Thai-Cambodian border area, government agencies are instructed to facilitate voter transportation to and from polling stations and ensure that eligible voters are informed about registration requirements before Election Day, as per the Election Commission's announcement dated December 15, 2025.