Thailand election: Crucial constitutional referendum explained

0 February 8, 2026 01:47

Aside from a snap election, Thailand is holding a crucial referendum that could pave the way for a new constitution. The current constitution, written under military rule in 2017, grants extensive powers to unelected officials and independent agencies, leading to frequent dismissals of elected prime ministers and the banning of political parties. The referendum is the first step in a long process that could span years, involving drafting a new constitution, followed by additional referenda to approve the process and the final draft. The hope is that a new constitution will empower elected representatives and facilitate progress on key issues. CNA’s Saksith Saiyasombut explains.