Bangkok: Nanthana Nantavaropas has called on the Election Commission to release individual vote counts and the list of those accused in the Senate collusion case to ensure transparency and ultimately submit the case to the Supreme Court for a final ruling. She emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust and highlighted the right to peaceful demonstrations, urging the Commission to carefully consider the legal arguments and evidence.
According to Thai News Agency, Senator Nantana commented on the Election Commission's scheduled meeting to vote on the Senate collusion case, noting that the matter has been pending for over two years under public scrutiny. The EC has announced that it will reveal its decision through a press conference, marking a historic and irreversible moment. The Thai population is eagerly awaiting the Commission's ruling, as many academics believe that proceeding with the Senate collusion without accountability could result in a distortion of democracy and an illegitimate legislature.
The decision by the Election Commission may not merely involve acting as a prosecutor reviewing the indictment. Of the seven members of the EC, four were elected by the Senate, which faces charges of irregularities in its selection process. If the Commission decides not to indict the 229 Senators or related individuals, there could be public suspicion of a quid pro quo, given the Senate's influence in the Commission's composition.
Ms. Nanthana proposed that the best way to stabilize Thai politics and build trust is for the EC to refer the case to the Supreme Court for a thorough investigation. The case files from Subcommittee 26, which accuse 229 individuals, should be submitted to the court to determine the legality of their actions. This would assure the public of no conflicts of interest, allowing the EC to fulfill its duties correctly and fairly. The Supreme Court's decision would be accepted as final, whether it confirms innocence or finds wrongdoing.
Responding to reports that the EC may not disclose individual decisions and names of the accused, Ms. Nanthana asserted that transparency is crucial for independent organizations. Concealment could lead to suspicion, so it is better to clearly disclose individual decisions to ensure they align with the law and judicial processes.
Addressing potential impacts of mass protests on the Election Commission's decision, Ms. Nanthana stated that public demonstrations are a form of freedom of expression, provided they are peaceful. These gatherings reflect public opinion and should inform the Commission's understanding beyond digital communication, urging it to consider all voices against the backdrop of legal and factual evidence.