Prachinburi: Former Senator Kittisak Rattanawaraha brought Jirasin Waigan, a mayoral candidate from Pho Ngam Subdistrict, Prachantakham District, Prachinburi Province, to file a complaint with the Election Commission regarding the qualifications of Banthoeng Panyadee, the elected candidate who received the highest number of votes in the February 15th election.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirasin Waigan, who previously served as deputy mayor, discovered potential irregularities in Banthoeng's financial activities. He reported that Banthoeng had transferred all of their salary and other compensations to their spouse, despite an asset freeze order issued in 2018, which he claims led to tax evasion and loss of national interest. Mr. Jirasin believes these actions could disqualify Banthoeng from the mayoral race and has filed complaints with several agencies, including the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), the State Audit Office (SAO), and the Revenue Department. The AMLO has already urged the NACC to expedite their investigation into the matter.

Mr. Kittisak expressed the significance of maintaining transparency in local elections, despite their scale. He noted that he accompanied Mr. Jirasin to file the complaint because it was the only one filed so far. He encouraged other candidates and individuals with pertinent information to come forward if they feel unjustly treated. Mr. Kittisak offered his assistance in coordinating with relevant agencies, emphasizing the necessity of transparency and fairness in all elections.