The EC Secretary-General explained the legal issues surrounding whether the 'Half-Half' program can continue under the caretaker cabinet, emphasizing that the EC considers fairness and competitive advantage.
On 12 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Mr. Sa-wang Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission, addressed whether the caretaker cabinet can continue the 'Half-Half Plus' project. He explained the legal perspective based on Article 169 of the Constitution, which specifies four matters: 1. Projects and tasks must fall within the current fiscal year; 2. Personnel transfers, appointments, or removals require EC approval—but only for certain positions, not all. Positions approved by the cabinet must be submitted to the EC for approval; 3. The central budget must not be approved for commitment unless the EC consents; and 4. Use of state resources must adhere to existing regulations. Use of state resources or projects might involve the central budget, so the cabinet must consider this and request EC approval if they wish to proceed.
When asked if projects already approved by the cabinet but requiring budget use must always seek EC approval, Mr. Sa-wang said that while they must request EC approval, the EC must consider that the project should not create unfair competitive advantage. Although it is within the EC's authority, this fairness consideration is paramount.