B8.9bn budget for poll, referendum

The cabinet has approved a total budget of 8.978 billion baht for the Election Commission (EC) to stage the upcoming general election and a referendum, with the Budget Bureau tasked with working closely with the commission to ensure cost efficiency and transparency.

- AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said the decision was made at yesterday's cabinet meeting, which endorsed the use of central funds to support the simultaneous staging of the two votes.

Of the total allocation, 6.75 billion baht has been earmarked for the general election, 525 million baht for the referendum, and 1.7 billion baht for personnel and operational expenses.

The Budget Bureau was instructed to review expenditure details with the EC to ensure prudent and economical use of public funds.