Thailand Gears Up for General Election: March 29 Seen as the Most Likely Date

Thailand is heading toward what could be a defining moment in its political future, as officials revealed that the next general election is most likely to take place on March 29. The update comes after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul held crucial discussions with the Election Commission regarding the upcoming vote.

According to Paradorn Prissananantakul, a minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, the government and the Election Commission have aligned on a tentative timeline. “The most likely date is March 29,” he confirmed in a statement to Reuters.

Prime Minister Anutin had earlier announced his intention to dissolve parliament by the end of January, setting the stage for a March or early April election. Alongside the general election, Thailand may also witness two significant referendums — one on a new constitution and another on whether to revoke two border demarcation agreements with Cambodia.

The Election Commission has yet to formally declare the election date, but its chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong shared that planning is underway for both the poll and the referendums, expected to take place simultaneously. The estimated budget for the election and referendums is 9 billion baht (RM1.16 billion), with about 53 million eligible voters across the nation.

Anutin, who took office as Thailand’s third prime minister since August 2023, rose to power in September after winning a parliamentary vote. His ascent came following his decision to withdraw the Bhumjaithai Party from a ruling coalition led by the Pheu Thai Party. To secure parliamentary backing — particularly from the opposition People’s Party — Anutin agreed to key conditions: calling for a new election within four months and holding a constitutional referendum.

As Thailand prepares for this pivotal election, all eyes are on how the outcomes could reshape the nation’s political and constitutional landscape. The people’s voice — and their vote — will once again define the country’s direction in the months ahead.

At the heart of it all, this isn’t just about politics — it’s about trust, renewal, and the power of participation. Thailand stands at the threshold of change, and March 29 could mark the dawn of a new chapter for its democracy.