Bangkok: "Natthapong" has urged the Election Commission to reveal the names of election officials who destroyed ballot papers. Nattapong stated that he would not oppose if Kla Tham opted to become an opposition party, despite their differing stances, as long as they effectively scrutinize the government. He also emphasized the need for the Election Commission to promptly disclose the identities of the election officials involved in destroying ballots to address various questions and concerns.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, commented on the Bhumjaithai Party's attempts to pressure the Kla Tham Party into becoming an opposition party, noting that there should be no obstacles. He explained that opposition parties do not need to work in complete unity, as parliamentary mechanisms like the opposition whip system exist. Thus, any party, including the Kla Tham Party, can function as an opposition party without aligning their stance completely with the People's Party, provided they fulfill their role by rigorously scrutinizing the government.
In response to the Election Commission's (EC) summoning of election officials for questioning about photographing ballot papers with barcodes, Mr. Nattapong expressed concern about the EC's actions. He highlighted societal worries about the EC threatening to sue citizens, including election officials, under the Computer Crime Act for honest actions. While photographing certain elements of the voting process is illegal, capturing the pre-voting process itself is not. The EC's actions could potentially pressure officials to release original images, raising questions about whether regulations were actually violated. He urged the EC to act transparently and avoid using its power to silence others.
Regarding the public petition to remove the Election Commission, the People's Party is committed to pursuing criminal charges against the EC under Articles 157 and 172. Other avenues have been explored through civil society and the general public, including complaints filed with the Ombudsman and the Administrative Court. The People's Party will not duplicate these complaints but intends to follow up and demand transparency from the Election Commission.
Concerns about barcode data leakage at polling booths have been raised, with fears that corrupt officials could leak voter information during vote counting. The EC maintains that the ballot storage process is confidential and separate. Mr. Nattapong emphasized the importance of transparency by releasing the names of all Election Commissions (ECs) nationwide, noting that this information is publicly available and should bear the EC's signature at polling stations.
When questioned about the potential invalidation of the election due to these issues, Mr. Nattapong suggested that other agencies like the Administrative and Constitutional Courts may have the authority to consider this matter. He clarified that the demand is for a transparent and fair election process, protecting citizens' rights. Currently, issues with ballot papers exist, and the EC must resolve them.
The best way forward, according to Mr. Nattapong, is to maintain confidentiality and expedite the destruction of ballots. Whether this will lead to the election being declared invalid is a decision for other agencies to make.