Bangkok: Parit Wacharasindhu, spokesperson for the People's Party, observed the re-election process in Khan Na Yao district, emphasizing that the procedures must mirror those from February 8th.
According to Thai News Agency, Parit is preparing to address the issue of missing ballot stub codes in a lawsuit against the Election Commission under Section 157, with plans to file next week.
Following the closure of polls at polling station 9 in Constituency 15, Kannayao District, Parit, alongside the deputy party leader and the parliamentary candidate for the area, gathered information on the re-election in Bangkok's Constituency 15. He highlighted several observations and irregularities noted by the People's Party, insisting that if the Election Commission claims the February 8th election was conducted correctly, the February 22nd re-election must follow identical procedures.
Parit outlined five critical procedures that should have been observed: ballot papers with barcodes and QR codes, visibility of ballot stub codes for voters, sequential changes in ballot stub codes, officials recording voter registration numbers, and officials publicly announcing votes without concealing barcodes or QR codes. He stressed that if these procedures are not adhered to, it raises legitimate questions about the election process.
When questioned about alterations in the ballot stub numbers as potential evidence for the lawsuit, Parit explained that the decision to delay filing was to collect additional information. He emphasized that the visibility of codes on ballot stubs is crucial for ensuring vote secrecy. If today's procedures differ, it could indicate discrepancies.
On the topic of vote secrecy, Parit noted two opposing views: one aligning with the People's Party, which defines "secret" as untraceable, and another supported by the Election Commission, which argues that while tracing is possible, it is difficult. Parit clarified that the People's Party does not accuse the Election Commission of fraud but suggests that barcode-based ballots could allow vote tracing, compromising the election's integrity.
Parit highlighted that if the Election Commission modifies the procedure, it might imply acknowledgment of past shortcomings. Legal experts offer differing opinions, but the People's Party maintains that "secret" means untraceable, consistent with constitutional provisions.
The People's Party is finalizing the lawsuit, set to be filed next week, incorporating today's findings as evidence. The deputy party leader is spearheading the preparation, underscoring the importance of transparency and adherence to established electoral procedures.