Thailand sets date for referendum on new constitution

5 January 2026
Flag of Thailand (photo credit: Chickenonline via pixabay)
Flag of Thailand (photo credit: Chickenonline via pixabay)
The Royal Gazette has published a Prime Minister’s Office notice scheduling a referendum on February 8, 2026—asking whether Thailand should have a new constitution—on the same day as the general election. [ . . . ] The notice says the cabinet told parliament it would support a referendum process and constitutional amendments by listening to the public and promoting participation from all sectors. The cabinet therefore deemed it appropriate to hold a first referendum to seek approval for drafting a new constitution, under Section 9, paragraph two (2) of the Referendum Act 2021. It also notes that the Election Commission has already set Sunday, February 8, 2026 as the date for the general election of MPs. The cabinet said it was therefore necessary to hold the referendum on the same day to save public funds, maximise convenience for voters, and reduce the burden on the Election Commission.
Read the full article here: The Nation