Changes to SSO board vote spark criticismProposed changes to election regulations for the Social Security Board (SSB) have ignited sharp criticism, with academics and stakeholders warning the reforms could undermine transparency and return the system to an era dominated by lobbying. However, he claimed the board is now merely serving in a caretaker capacity while the new rules are being pushed forward under unclear conditions, without consideration by the board. In the 2023 board election, each insured person could vote for up to seven candidates, reflecting the will of more than 150,000 voters. Senator Chinchote Saengsang, a committee member, also questioned the origin of the new rules and what flaws in the 2023 election justified the change. The Social Security Office (SSO), represented by inspector-general Malakan Horprathum, defended the changes, saying the 2023 election had a low turnout and the new "one-person-one-vote" model would reduce confusion and ensure fairer accessibility.

Source: Bangkok Post February 21, 2026 23:21 UTC