Bangkok: Waiting to hear the Election Commission's explanation regarding the non-numbering of ballot papers on February 22. Noraset awaits the Election Commission's explanation regarding the non-numbering of ballot papers on February 22 before inviting them for questioning in the Political Affairs Committee. He also sees the possibility of a new election if the process was flawed, leading to an inaccurate representation of the people's will.
According to Thai News Agency, Senator Noraset Prachyakorn, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Freedoms, and Consumer Protection, commented on his observation of the re-election at polling station 9, constituency 15, Khan Na Yao Subdistrict, on February 22nd. He noted that the ballot stubs lacked serial numbers, unlike the ballots used on February 8th. This suggests the Election Commission (EC) sensed an irregularity and therefore did not use numbered ballots, raising concerns about voter secrecy, as it allows for traceability of who each voted for. He stated he is awaiting a clear explanation from the EC regarding the reasons for this change and will gather information from various sources before presenting it to the committee for further consideration.
When asked whether differing ballot standards could lead to a complete re-election, Mr. Noraset said that such a case requires consideration of several factors. The issue of QR codes or barcodes on ballots and whether they compromise voting secrecy is something that needs further consideration. He believes there is a clear risk of violating the constitution if retrospective verification is possible.
"Regarding whether this will lead to a new election, it depends on the principle of whether a non-secret election would carry sufficient weight. If the people's will remains unchanged, it could be considered. However, if irregularities such as ballot stuffing or errors that alter the people's intentions are found, it could lead to a new election," Mr. Noraset said.