Thai security chief says border areas fit for elections

2026-01-27 - 05:19

BANGKOK — 27 January 2026, Thailand’s national security chief said that the current situation along the country’s borders remains calm enough to allow elections to be held, though authorities must assess developments on a day-by-day basis. Chatcai Bangchuad, secretary-general of the National Security Council, told reporters at Government House at 09:40 that there had been no reports of unrest in the southern border provinces, adding that security agencies were closely monitoring the situation. He said intelligence coordination was being strengthened at all levels following earlier criticism by the prime minister, with police and military units working together to ensure a unified response. Asked whether the Southern Border Provinces Peace Dialogue Panel was involved in addressing the situation, Chatcai said details should be provided by Gen. Somsak Rungsita, the panel’s head. On the Thai-Cambodian border, Chatcai said assessments showed elections could be organised without major problems. He said authorities were continuing to monitor the situation but, for now, conditions remained stable. Responding to reports on social media warning of a possible third round of clashes that could force border residents to evacuate, he said the situation was fragile and required daily evaluation, as multiple risk factors remained. Chatcai said no special security measures were needed beyond existing arrangements during the election period, noting that internal areas along both the Thai-Cambodian border and in the southern provinces were primarily under police responsibility. When asked about Cambodia digging trenches near the border and whether this had security implications, he said the military would be better placed to comment in line with its prepared plans.