Bangkok: The Bangkok Election Commission is set to begin accepting applications for parliamentary candidates across 33 constituencies, while addressing issues related to advance registration. Sub-Lieutenant Sampan Saengkhamlert, Director of Elections for Bangkok, confirmed the preparations and steps being undertaken to ensure a smooth electoral process.
According to Thai News Agency, political parties have been advised to verify the initial qualifications of their candidates, focusing on party membership and any prohibited characteristics. There has been a steady flow of inquiries and document submissions for candidate verification. The registration venue will be prepared by December 25, 2025, followed by a briefing session for the registration committee on December 26, 2025, at the Thai-Japanese Din Daeng Sports Complex, Building 2. All 33 districts will coordinate their candidate registrations at this central location.
Sub-Lieutenant Sampan also discussed campaign regulations, emphasizing that while campaign vehicles are allowed, entertainment and festivities are not. The commission is working with relevant agencies to finalize designated locations for campaign sign installations, adhering to the same guidelines used in the 2023 election. Candidates will be notified to correct any improperly placed signs, with removal and cost charges being enforced if corrections are not made.
Starting December 24th, designated areas for campaign sign installations will be announced incrementally throughout Bangkok. Candidates will be provided with a QR code on registration day to access an updated database of allowed locations.
The Director also addressed technical issues preventing some citizens from registering for advance voting due to incompatible smartphone models. Efforts are underway to rectify this issue, with a resolution expected by the end of the day as per the instructions from the Secretary-General of the Election Commission.
Sub-Lieutenant Sampan acknowledged concerns regarding potential delays on Election Day, which will include both parliamentary elections and a referendum. The process will involve two voting stages, but logistical measures have been implemented to reduce confusion, and voter turnout is expected to surpass the previous election’s low 70s percentage.
Additionally, the Bangkok Election Commission plans to hold a meeting for the 280-member committee overseeing candidate registration. Promotional efforts are in place to engage over 450 organizations in the “6 Weeks of Democracy” program, highlighting the commission’s readiness and experience in managing elections.
Further clarification was provided regarding referendum voting outside the election district scheduled for February 8, 2026. There will be no advance voting, but those wishing to vote must register and will be directed to designated locations within each district, initially the same as those used for advance voting on February 1, 2026.