Bangkok: The Chairman of the Election Commission has addressed concerns regarding the investigation into the Senate collusion case, affirming that the process is being conducted within the legal framework without any delays. The chairman emphasized that contrary to criticisms, the procedure is neither slow nor stalled.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Narong Klanwarin, Chairman of the Election Commission, spoke following the conclusion of the EC's activities about the ongoing Senate collusion case. He responded to criticisms from academics suggesting that only 20 out of 229 individuals would face accountability. Mr. Narong dismissed these claims, asserting that the commission's proceedings are moving forward efficiently and legally. He noted that meetings concerning the investigation are held regularly every Monday before departing from the press briefing.
Meanwhile, Secretary-General Saeng Boonmee was questioned about the June 26, 2024, Senate election events highlighted by a video clip presented by Mr. Parit Wacharasindhu, the opposition whip. The clip reportedly showed Election Commission members handling voter lists and cautioning candidates. Mr. Saeng refrained from answering whether the voter lists from that day were retained, stating that all matters related to the election had already been adjudicated by both the Election Commission and the court.
When probed about the collection of lists and whether a meeting was convened on the same day, Mr. Saeng merely smiled and confirmed that a meeting was scheduled for 10:00 AM without elaborating further.
In a related development, Election Commissioner Thitichat Nuchanat, who was expected to attend an event, withdrew from participation less than thirty minutes before its commencement. This decision came after Mr. Parit released a video from the Senate election day involving Thitichat, leading to speculation about the circumstances of his abrupt departure.