The Political Development Committee proposes accelerating the Social Security Office's clarification of election criteria and preparation for the Social Security Board election on 27 September 2026.
At 11:30 a.m. on 3 September 2026 at the Parliament, Sahasawat Khumkhong, Member of Parliament from the Prachachon Party, briefed on the progress of preparations for the Social Security Board election scheduled for 27 September 2026. He stated that the committee on political development, mass communication, and public participation found several issues needing urgent action to ensure the election proceeds smoothly and facilitates all eligible voters effectively.
Sahasawat said this Social Security Board election is the second in history following the first in 2023. Changes to the registration criteria and election date have required the Social Security Office to adjust its preparations to align with the new rules, especially the provision allowing insured persons and employers to vote without prior registration.
Key issues discussed between the committee and the Social Security Office include election publicity, which should provide clear, comprehensive information accessible to the public about the election date and time, polling locations, and ways to verify eligibility. This aims to enable insured persons and employers to prepare and exercise their voting rights correctly.
Additionally, there are proposals concerning the readiness of polling stations and staff, particularly training and establishing standardized operational guidelines nationwide. Also discussed were the criteria for valid and invalid ballots, since this election uses number writing on ballots. Clear criteria and manuals are needed for polling station committees to ensure consistent practices.
Regarding election observation, capturing images at polling stations, vote counting, result compilation and reporting, as well as methods for publicizing results, these matters remain under consideration to determine appropriate guidelines.
For facilitating employers, suggestions include reducing procedural steps and document burdens necessary for voting rights to prevent eligible voters from being unable to vote due to incomplete paperwork.
The Social Security Office has received these proposals and issues from the committee for consideration and will present them at the Social Security Election Committee meeting on 9 September 2026. The committee urges the Ministry of Labour and Social Security Office to expedite relevant actions and communicate information and decisions clearly to the public to build understanding and confidence in the election process.
Sahasawat added that the Social Security Board election should prioritize facilitating insured persons and employers, ensuring all eligible voters can access and exercise their rights fully. The process must be transparent and fair to foster trust in the election and ensure the results appropriately reflect the voices of all stakeholders.