Sophon has upgraded security measures at the parliament, tightening controls on people and vehicles. Carrying firearms is strictly prohibited without exception, including MPs and their escorts. Plans are in progress to sign an MOU with the police to exchange safety information.
On 13 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Sophon Sarum, Speaker of Parliament and Speaker of the House of Representatives, held a meeting to deliver policies for enhancing security measures inside the parliament building to executives of the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. Present were Mr. Siroj Paetphan, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives; Mr. Jes Anukoonphokarat, Director of the Security Office; and other relevant officials.
Mr. Sophon stated that while the parliament already had security measures, he wanted to intensify enforcement. He aims to review and improve regulations and add practical measures covering legal aspects, rules, and related directives comprehensively. For screening individuals and vehicles, cars entering and exiting parliament must have authorized ID cards or stickers; if not, occupants must report their mission and undergo prior inspection. Public vehicles, taxis, motorcycles, and delivery riders must exchange ID cards before entry and park only at designated drop-off points.
The Speaker added that everyone entering and exiting must wear clear identification badges. He believes parliament should have clear, systematically enforced standards without case-by-case exceptions that weaken security effectiveness. Everyone inside the parliament building—including MPs, staff, escorts, and outsiders—must pass through X-ray scanners. Carrying firearms is strictly forbidden; any found will be confiscated immediately and reported to authorities. Facilities will be arranged for storing and returning firearms according to established rules and documentation.
Additionally, escorts or unrelated outsiders are not permitted to enter MPs' meeting rooms or reception areas. A patrol system will be implemented to monitor risk points and blind spots within the parliament building.
The Speaker also said that plans are underway to formalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Royal Thai Police to exchange information and coordinate security efforts. This aims to improve response capabilities and the effectiveness of safety information sharing. The legal department has been tasked with reviewing existing regulations and proposing improvements before public communication.
The Speaker emphasized that this upgrade is a systematic preparation to meet standards for a key legislative site, ensuring the tightest security. It is not a reaction to any particular trend or incident.