Election Commission Requests 2 Days to Decide on Chonburi Recount

BANGKOK, Feb 11 (TNA) - The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) has requested a 48-hour window to investigate whether a recount is necessary for Constituency 1 in Chonburi, following public protests over alleged irregularities in ballot storage.

The ECT’s Clarification

Passakorn Siripakayaporn and Khanchit Charoen-in, Deputy Secretaries-General of the Election Commission addressed the situation during a press conference. They explained that the controversy stemmed from a "misunderstanding" during the process of consolidating ballot boxes after the initial count.

Officials stated that plastic seals were intentionally cut to combine ballots for transport to the central counting center. They insisted that while the seals were removed, the boxes were secured with adhesive tape to prevent tampering. The ECT maintained that the official scores posted at individual polling stations remain final and unalterable.

Protests and Public Distrust

Unsatisfied with the explanation, local residents gathered to demand immediate action. Protesters showed members of the press ballot boxes that appeared to be unsealed or improperly secured, questioning why a 48-hour delay was necessary when the physical evidence of procedural breaches seemed clear.

Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a key figure of the People’s Party, arrived at the scene to negotiate with officials. He raised concerns about the ECT’s slow decision-making, stating that transparency and clear communication are vital to public trust. Consequently, citizens have organized a 24-hour volunteer watch to guard the ballot boxes until a final decision is made.

Political Friction

The dispute has sparked a heated exchange between rival political figures. 

Mr. Suchart Chomklin, the unofficial winning candidate for Constituency 1 and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, stated he has no concerns regarding a recount. However, he he likened those refusing to accept the election results to 'a crying child throwing a tantrum for candy. He challenged his opponents to resign from their positions if a recount yields the same results.

Ms. Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork, a People’s Party MP-elect, hit back on social media, saying Mr. Suchart’s comments were an insult to the public. She argued that the gathering was a legitimate demand for justice and challenged Mr. Suchart to resign from both his MP seat and any potential cabinet positions if a recount shows discrepancies.

The ECT's central investigation team is expected to provide a clear resolution within the next two days. -819 (TNA)