Bangkok: The dissolution of Thailand's parliament in the early hours of December 12, 2025, has led to significant political developments, including the immediate termination of the House of Representatives' term. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's announcement has set the stage for new elections, expected to occur on Sunday, February 8, 2026, within the mandated 45 to 60 days. While the House of Representatives is dissolved, the Senate remains unaffected and will continue its functions as usual.
According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a former Election Commissioner, expressed his concerns regarding the dissolution through a Facebook post. He likened the situation to having "not getting to eat a single dish," with only "dessert in syrup" as consolation. The constitutional amendment, previously stalled in its second reading, has been dropped due to the dissolution. The new cabinet, however, has the opportunity to propose it for consideration by the new parliament within 60 days of the first parliamentary session.
The dissolution also impacts the possibility of holding a referendum on election day. The referendum law requires a 60-day waiting period, making it impossible to conduct a referendum simultaneously with the elections. The Cabinet, citing constitutional constraints, argues that a caretaker government does not have the authority to approve measures binding on the succeeding government. Despite a parliamentary resolution sent to the Cabinet to proceed with the first referendum question, the caretaker Cabinet is limited in its capacity to act.
Parliamentary elections will adhere to previous rules, using two separate ballot papers: one for constituency candidates and another for parties. Parties with single-digit numbers could benefit from proportional representation seats due to public voting errors. Caretaker governments are restricted from undertaking many actions but can manage disaster and national security issues. They must seek permission from the Election Commission to use emergency reserve funds. The Election Commission must also ensure that crisis situations are not exploited for campaign purposes.
The constitutional amendment process, described by Srisutthiyakorn as the "main menu item," is currently off the table, with the referendum's first question delayed. The only consolation, according to Srisutthiyakorn's metaphorical expression, is the symbolic "sweet treat" of water chestnuts in syrup, highlighting the limited progress in political reforms.