Thai King presides over State Opening of Parliament following 2026 general election

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Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida preside over the State Opening of Parliament at the Sappaya-Sapasathan parliament building in Bangkok on March 14, 2026, formally marking the start of the new parliamentary session after the February 8 general election.

BANGKOK, Thailand – Their Majesties the King and Queen presided over the State Opening of Parliament at 5:17 p.m. on March 14, 2026, at the Parliament Chamber, Parliament Building, Dusit District, Bangkok.

The State Opening of Parliament is an important constitutional ceremony in Thailand’s democracy, in which the King serves as Head of State. This tradition formally marks the start of parliamentary duties, signifying that elected representatives will begin governing on behalf of the people. During the ceremony, His Majesty the King presides and delivers a Royal Address, offering guidance to members of Parliament as they assume their official responsibilities.

The State Opening of Parliament takes place after the general election of Members of the House of Representatives, held on February 8, 2026. The Election Commission announced the official results for both constituency and party-list members on March 4, 2026.

According to the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, the King convenes and opens the first session of Parliament within 15 days of the official election results, allowing members to hold their inaugural meeting.

Previously, Their Majesties presided over the State Opening of Parliament on May 24, 2019, at Vithes Samosorn Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangkok, and on July 3, 2023, at the Parliament Building in Dusit District. (NNT)