Bangkok: The Election Commission is convening to deliberate on the Senate collusion case, with a decisive announcement expected at 3:00 PM. The case involves allegations against 229 individuals accused of collusion during Senate elections, prompting heightened security measures around the commission's premises.
According to Thai News Agency, the Election Commission's meeting, which began at 10:00 AM, aims to address complaints tied to the alleged collusion. This follows an extensive investigation by the 26th Investigation Committee in collaboration with the Department of Special Investigation. The committee's thorough process, involving the collection of evidence and interviews with over 700 witnesses, led to a conclusion that implicates the 229 accused individuals.
Despite the findings, the 36th Subcommittee for Resolving Issues and Disputes previously voted 5 to 2, asserting the complaint lacked merit and recommended no charges against the accused. With the decision pending, a press conference is planned for 3:00 PM on the second floor of the Election Commission building, though access is restricted to registered personnel only.
Security has been intensified with a 100-member police contingent securing the area. Barricades have been set up around the entrance to the government center, and police from Metropolitan Police Division 2 and Thung Song Hong Police Station are present to ensure order.
The accused comprise a significant number of political figures, including 138 current senators, 50 reserve senators and candidates, 21 ministers, MPs, and party executives, and 20 members of a party network. Notably, the list includes the Prime Minister, Bhumjaithai Party ministers, and Mr. Newin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club.
In an atmosphere of caution, no mass protests have been observed. The iLaw protest group has confirmed it will not conduct any symbolic demonstrations at the Government Complex or the Election Commission office during the proceedings.