Upcoming Elections Following Resignations of Local Leaders
The Election Commission (EC) of Thailand has announced that Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections will take place nationwide on February 1, 2025. This decision comes in response to several PAO presidents resigning before the completion of their terms, necessitating elections to fill these vacant positions.
Context of the Elections
The recent resignations occurred before the term end date of December 19, 2024, requiring the EC to conduct elections within 60 days. For officials completing their terms, elections must be held within 45 days.
- Historical Background: The first PAO elections under the 2017 Constitution and local election laws were held on December 20, 2020, following the military-led coup in 2014.
Registration Period for Candidates
Key Dates for Candidate Registration
The registration period for candidates vying for positions in the PAO Council and governors is set from December 23 to December 27.
- Provinces Involved: A total of 47 provinces will register PAO presidential candidates, while 76 provinces will register council members for the upcoming elections.
Provinces Participating in the Elections
List of Provinces Holding PAO Presidential Elections
The elections will feature PAO president candidates from various provinces, including:
- Krabi
- Chanthaburi
- Chachoengsao
- Chonburi
- Chiang Rai
- Chiang Mai
- Trang
- Trat
- Nakhon Nayok
- Nakhon Pathom
- Nakhon Phanom
- Nakhon Ratchasima
- Nonthaburi
- Narathiwat
- Nan
- Bueng Kan
- Buri Ram
- Prachuap Khiri Khan
- Prachinburi
- Pattani
- Phang Nga
- Phatthalung
- Phichit
- Phrae
- Phuket
- Maha Sarakham
- Mukdahan
- Mae Hong Son
- Yala
- Rayong
- Lopburi
- Lampang
- Lamphun
- Si Sa Ket
- Sakon Nakhon
- Songkhla
- Satun
- Samut Prakan
- Samut Songkhram
- Samut Sakhon
- Saraburi
- Singburi
- Suphanburi
- Surat Thani
- Nong Khai
- Nong Bua Lamphu
- Amnat Charoen
Exclusions from the Upcoming Elections
Provinces Not Participating
Certain provinces will not participate in the upcoming elections due to previous by-elections caused by resignations or election fraud.
Recent Election Trends and Political Landscape
Overview of Recent By-Elections
Recent by-elections have seen significant political shifts, with various parties gaining leadership in different provinces. The most recent election on December 22 resulted in Pheu Thai candidates winning in Uttaradit and Ubon Ratchathani.
Significance of Upcoming Elections
The upcoming PAO elections on February 1 will play a crucial role in shaping Thailand’s political landscape. With multiple provinces participating and significant implications for local governance, these elections are expected to influence future political dynamics in the country.
