Bangkok: The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) has released detailed procedures for the upcoming referendum and general election scheduled to occur concurrently.
According to Thai News Agency, the ECT has clarified that the general election will be conducted first, followed by the referendum. Voter registration for those wishing to vote outside the country and for individuals who are disabled, elderly, or handicapped will commence tomorrow, January 3rd.
The ECT has issued a document explaining the referendum aimed at amending the constitution, which will be held alongside the general election for Members of Parliament (MPs). The referendum seeks public opinion on whether a new constitution is necessary, presenting voters with three options: approve, disapprove, or abstain. This is the first referendum of its kind, in line with the Constitutional Court's ruling that Parliament can initiate or express a desire to draft a new constitution but must first secure public approval through a referendum. It is crucial to understand that this referendum does not directly result in the drafting of a new constitution but rather gauges the public's stance on the necessity of drafting one.
The voting process will occur in two stages on the same day: the first stage involves the parliamentary election, and the second involves the referendum. Registration for absentee voting or voting outside the country, as well as for individuals with disabilities or the elderly, will occur nationwide on the same day. Notably, there will be no advance voting. Voters who cannot participate at a polling station on Sunday, February 8, 2026, have the option to register for voting outside their district or abroad. The registration period is open from January 3 to January 5, 2026.
Registrations can be submitted through three channels: district or local registrar, the ambassador, or an authorized representative. Applications sent by mail must bear a postmark date between January 3-5, 2026. Alternatively, online applications can be submitted at any time, with the system closing automatically at midnight Thailand time on January 5, 2026.