Even though the border situation has inevitably affected the lives of displaced residents, eligible voters and election officials in those provinces, it would not necessarily disrupt the election process, EC secretary-general Sawang Boonmee said yesterday (Dec 17).
“We want the election to take place on the scheduled date. We have management plans in place and will rely on cooperation from voters,” Mr Sawang said.
He added that fighting along the border would not hinder the poll, although the declaration of martial law there could require further assessment depending on its scope and substance, reports the Bangkok Post.
Asked whether polling stations could be set up at evacuation centres, Mr Sawang said the EC was still evaluating options. Arrangements could include transporting voters to polling units or sending mobile polling stations to displaced voters.
Mr Sawang dismissed speculation that the election could be delayed if violence escalated on Polling Day.
“Once the election has been announced officially, it means we are confident it can be held.
“Even if unforeseen incidents occur, they will not affect the process, as we are operating under special-area and special-situation management frameworks permitted by law,” he said.
In fact, he said, three major political events are scheduled early next year: local administrative organisation elections on Jan 11, the general election on Feb 8, and a national referendum on drafting a new constitution. Planning was underway for each.
The referendum date will depend on a formal cabinet decision, which the prime minister must announce within 15 days, he said, adding the referendum could be held on the same day as the general election.
Meanwhile, the EC disclosed the five parties receiving the biggest annual state subsidies for 2026 out of 71 registered parties.
The People’s Party will receive the largest allocation at B96.78 million, followed by the United Thai Nation Party with B13.11mn, the Pheu Thai Party with B12.20mn, the Democrat Party with B10.03mn, and the Thai Sang Thai Party with B3.93mn.