Labor Minister Says Social Security Board Election Will Proceed September 27

Labor Minister Chulphan Amornvivat addressed the postponement of the Social Security Board election at a press conference on July 28, 2025, at Sanam Luang. He explained that someone filed a case with the administrative court claiming the board registration announcement was improper, prompting the court to issue a temporary suspension order. The Social Security Office held an election committee meeting on July 27 but halted proceedings to await clarity from the court on whether the election can proceed. If the court rules favorably and lifts the suspension, the ministry will keep the original September 27 election date.

Amornvivat said the situation involves two aspects: the 2564-2565 election regulations that were in place when he took office, and public and civil society demands to expedite the election process. He emphasized the necessity of having a fully empowered board to operate the Social Security Office efficiently. When asked if politics was involved in the legal challenge, he declined to speculate, noting he does not know the complainant personally. He stressed that the challenger has legitimate legal rights to file the case, and the office must follow proper procedures.

When asked about the risk of delays jeopardizing the September 27 deadline, Amornvivat expressed hope that the election would not be postponed, as a new fully functional board is urgently needed. He dismissed opposition claims that the government lacked sincerity, saying he had engaged extensively with opposition members and civil society groups and demonstrated genuine commitment. He reiterated that regardless of the court proceedings, an election for the Social Security Board must take place, and the office will follow all legal steps to ensure it happens.