Thailand: The Election Commission oversees groundbreaking parliamentary elections and referendums

Just two weeks ago, Thailand faced a historic choice. The parliamentary elections took place on February 8th from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, marking a significant event for the country’s future. The Election Commission oversees the voting process, which will determine the structure of power in the coming years.

The Election Commission regulates the voting and counting process

The Thai Election Commission confirms that 57 political parties are participating in the elections, competing for 500 seats in the lower house of Parliament. Voters will also choose from over 90 candidates for the position of Prime Minister. The Election Commission has set April 9th as the deadline for the official vote count, ensuring enough time to verify the results.

The legislative process must proceed according to a strict schedule. The newly elected parliament is required to convene its first session within 15 days of the results being certified. During this session, deputies will elect the speaker of the house, and then proceed to select the Prime Minister through a parliamentary vote.

The constitutional referendum will reshape the institutions of power

Alongside the parliamentary elections, Thailand is conducting a constitutional referendum. Citizens will decide whether to authorize Parliament to initiate amendments to the constitution. This decision could be hugely significant, as the current constitution dates from 2017 and was enacted by military authorities.

The referendum offers an opportunity to change the country’s fundamental legal framework. If citizens approve, the constitutional process could open the door to substantial institutional reforms that have been postponed since the current regime was established by the military. The Election Commission will oversee this referendum process and ensure its integrity.