Bangkok: Two referendum questions are set to be prepared by the Election Commission in conjunction with the general election scheduled for February 8, 2026. The referendum questions, proposed by the Cabinet and Parliament, will be submitted to the Election Commission in accordance with Section 11, in conjunction with Section 9 (2) and (4), to save government budget and ensure relevant agencies provide necessary information, prepare budgets, and create equality in all aspects.
According to Thai News Agency, an urgent letter was sent by Ms. Natthajaree Anantasilsin, Secretary-General of the Cabinet, to the Secretary-General of the Election Commission on December 16th. The letter outlined the first referendum question regarding the approval of drafting a new constitution. The Cabinet approved setting the referendum date to coincide with the general election for members of the House of Representatives on February 8, 2025. This coinciding date is considered cost-effective and convenient for the public, while also reducing the burden on the Election Commission, which would otherwise have to organize referendums and general elections on separate dates.
The proposed referendum questions include: 1.1 "Do you agree with the proposal to draft a new constitution?" and 1.2 "Do you agree that a new constitution is appropriate?" as per the Cabinet's determination in line with the Constitutional Court's ruling and the Referendum Act B.E. 2564 and its amendments.
The Secretariat of the House of Representatives has been tasked with preparing the required information as stipulated by Section 15 of the Referendum Act B.E. 2564 and its amendments. This information must be submitted to the Election Commission at least 15 days before the referendum announcement, ensuring the public is well-informed. The Election Commission will utilize this data for the referendum based on the Cabinet's question.
The Budget Bureau is advised to consult with the Election Commission to determine the expenses for the referendum and parliamentary elections. Additionally, radio and television stations, along with private sector operators, are requested to provide comprehensive and equal platforms for public opinion on the referendum matters, as outlined in Section 16 of the Referendum Act B.E. 2564 (2021) and its amendments.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), along with the National Telecommunications Commission and the Election Commission, are responsible for overseeing and regulating the referendum process to ensure fairness and equity in accordance with the law.