Bangkok: Only three days remain for citizens to report their reasons for not voting in the recent parliamentary election. According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, shared data from the Department of Provincial Administration revealing over 540,000 non-voter notifications for the parliamentary elections held between February 1-12, 2026. Of the 542,686 registered, 540,328 submissions were made online, while 2,358 were filed through registration offices.

Citizens have until February 15, 2026, to report reasons for not participating in the parliamentary elections or referendums. This notification is crucial to prevent restrictions on political rights as mandated by law. The reporting period extends for seven days following election day, from February 9-15, 2026. Individuals who did not vote must submit separate notifications for the parliamentary election and the referendum. Incomplete reporting may lead to a two-year suspension of political rights.

Ms. Lalida highlighted potential consequences for failing to report reasons for non-voting, which include restrictions on the right to run for public office, hold a political position, and other political rights as defined by law. Citizens can report their reasons through district or local registrars, registered mail, or via electronic channels such as the Election Commission's Smart Vote application and the Bureau of Registration Administration's website.

"We urge citizens who have not yet reported the incident to do so by February 15th, as reporting will help protect your rights and prevent you from unnecessarily losing your political rights," Ms. Lalida stated.