Thailand Braces for Historic ‘Dual’ Vote as International Observers Arrive
BANGKOK, Feb 6 (TNA) - Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) has welcomed delegates and diplomats from 17 countries to monitor the nation’s upcoming general election and constitutional referendum, a high-stakes "dual-track" vote scheduled for February 8.
The observation mission, running from Feb. 5–9, marks the 16th time Thailand has hosted international monitors since 2001. However, this year presents a unique logistical challenge: it is the first time in Thai history that both a general election and a national referendum are being held simultaneously.
"This is a significant and challenging mission," said Sawaeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the EC. "Our priority is to ensure the process remains transparent, fair, and in full compliance with the law."
Observers will monitor the distribution of ballots on Saturday before visiting polling stations across Bangkok on Sunday to witness the opening of booths, the voting process, and the final tallying of results.
FINAL CAMPAIGN BLITZ
As the 48-hour countdown begins, political heavyweights are making their final pitches to voters across the kingdom.
In Bangkok, Pheu Thai Party prime ministerial candidate Yodchanun Wongsawat led a massive caravan through the Thonburi district, promising to tackle the nation’s debt crisis and implement a flat 20-baht fare for the capital’s skytrain and subway systems.
"Debt is a critical issue," Yodchanun told cheering supporters at Wongwian Yai. "We are ready to solve the entire debt system for you. But more importantly, we must ensure you don't fall back into debt by reducing expenses, increasing income, and expanding opportunities for all Bangkokians."
Meanwhile, veteran politician and Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva campaigned in the heart of Bangkok, positioning his party as a stable alternative to the country’s polarized political climate.
"This isn’t just another election," Abhisit said. "The country has reached a perilous turning point. This is the people’s chance to change direction -moving away from destruction and conflict. The Democrat Party offers a safe way forward."
REGIONAL BATTLEGROUNDS
The campaign trail also heated up in the provinces. In the seaside city of Pattaya, the Bhumjaithai Party, led by local veteran Sonthaya Khunpluem, held a rally targeting business owners and tourism operators, promising regional economic stability.
In the Northeast—a crucial electoral stronghold—Pita Limjaroenrat, assistant campaigner of the People’s Party addressed a massive crowd in Khon Kaen. Pita, whose former party won the most seats in 2023 but was blocked from forming a government by conservative mechanisms, urged a "landslide" victory to prevent a repeat of past deadlocks.
"Vote on February 8th for change," Pita told the 20-million-strong voting bloc of the Northeast. "Vote decisively so we can form a people's government. Last time, his party that came in first was denied the chance to lead. Let me be the last person that happens to. This country cannot wait any longer."
Official preliminary results are expected late Sunday evening, shortly after polls close at 5:00 PM. -819 (TNA)
