Thailand's Election Commission today approved a plan for a general election scheduled for 8/2/2026. Early voting will be available from 1/2/2026. This early election follows Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's announcement on the night of 11/12 to dissolve parliament, a decision prompted by escalating tensions with the opposition People Party over constitutional amendments that had rendered the government unable to effectively govern the country.

During the general election, voters will elect 500 members of parliament. Voters will directly elect 400 seats in local constituencies, while parties will receive the remaining 100 seats based on their nationwide vote share. Each party may nominate a maximum of three prime ministerial candidates, with the registration deadline set for before 1/1/2026.

Official voting results are anticipated on 9/4/2026. The newly elected parliament must convene within 15 days to elect its speaker and vote for the new prime minister.

Thai voters cast their ballots in Bangkok during the May 2023 general election. *Photo: AFP*

Mr. Anutin affirmed that the dissolution of parliament would not impact Thailand's military operations amidst ongoing clashes with Cambodia at the disputed border.

Mr. Anutin, leader of the conservative Bhumjaithai party, took office in September after his predecessor, Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai party, was ousted for violating public service ethical standards.

Poll results indicate the People Party is currently receiving strong voter support, posing a formidable challenge to both Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai. The People Party's predecessor, the Move Forward party, won the 2023 general election but could not form a government due to a failure to secure a parliamentary majority.

Nhu Tam (According to Reuters, AFP)