Bangkok: The Director of the Bangkok Election Commission has clarified that the People's Democratic Party can replace its candidate for Member of Parliament in Constituency 33, following the candidate's arrest on charges of drug money laundering.

According to Thai News Agency, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Sampan Saengkhamlert, Director of the Bangkok Election Commission, stated that although the candidate does not lack the necessary qualifications, the party has the option to nominate a new candidate. The replacement process requires the candidate to participate in a primary vote and register by December 31st. The existing candidate's legal situation does not automatically disqualify them, as a final court judgment with a prison sentence is required to meet the prohibited characteristics outlined by election law.

Sampan emphasized that changes in candidacy are subject to specific conditions such as death, disqualification, or the presence of prohibited characteristics. In this instance, none of these conditions are currently met, allowing the candidate to remain in the race unless they choose to resign from the party. If a resignation occurs, the party must conduct a primary vote to select a new candidate, who must then register using the MP application form 4/9 before the deadline.

Additionally, Sampan clarified that if the original candidate does not resign and is not legally disqualified, they will continue as the candidate. For a new candidate to be fielded, they must be certified by the party as qualified and free of disqualifying characteristics. This certification must be submitted to the constituency's election director by December 31st.

The election commission will announce the list of qualified and disqualified candidates within seven days after the registration period ends. This provides an opportunity for objections to be raised about candidate qualifications. The commission has the authority to investigate and remove any candidate deemed ineligible, based on complaints regarding qualifications or ethical standards.

In recent developments, reporters from the People's Party revealed that Mr. Boonrit Raorungroj, the candidate for the Bangkok Noi - Bang Phlat district, has resigned from the People's Party, prompting the party to begin the process of selecting a new candidate.