Bangkok: "Saeng" has affirmed the Election Commission's commitment to addressing all opinions concerning the Senate collusion case, emphasizing that such opinions will not influence the factual integrity of the case file. The Election Commission, led by Mr. Saeng Boonmee, is steadfast in conducting its duties aligned with legal standards, undeterred by the daily social pressures faced.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Saeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission (EC), provided clarity on the EC's progress concerning the Senate collusion case, discussing its potential progression to court. He stated that the EC anticipates concluding the process by August, with four meetings remaining. Despite the case's prevalence in daily news, Mr. Saeng reiterated that external opinions or activities do not alter the factual basis or procedural approach mandated by law. The legal process necessitates an initial decision on potential guilt before court submission.
Mr. Saeng emphasized the importance of the EC's attention to public opinions, asserting that while these opinions are acknowledged, they do not alter the legal facts or procedural considerations necessary for the case. The EC's responsibility lies in gathering and verifying factual evidence, distinct from external opinions or accusations.
In response to the People's Party's upcoming press conference scheduled for July 26th, where additional evidence on the Senate collusion case will be presented, Mr. Saeng assured that the Election Commission would scrutinize the situation. The EC, alongside the 26th Sub-Committee on Investigation and Inquiry and the 36th Adjudication Committee, will verify whether the new information is already part of the case file.
Mr. Saeng highlighted that witness statements might differ between court proceedings and public discourse, necessitating a thorough examination of gathered evidence. The EC has established guidelines for similar cases, some of which have been dismissed, and continues to provide observations on its operations. Decisions will be evidence-based rather than influenced by public sentiment or individual opinions.
Addressing concerns about potential public backlash should the charges be dropped, Mr. Saeng emphasized that decisions rest solely on evidence, with comprehensive explanations provided in rulings. The EC's determinations are guided by factual evidence, not by collective or individual desires.
Responding to inquiries about the EC's resilience against social pressure, Mr. Saeng noted that such challenges are routine for the Commission. Regarding litigation initiated by the accused against those who released information, Mr. Saeng clarified that the accused is entitled to protect themselves, a process separate from the EC's responsibilities. He addressed the controversy surrounding a leaked video of a Senate candidate's voting slip submission, asserting that the EC possesses all necessary recordings, with legal obligations ensuring documentation of every voting step across levels.
Mr. Saeng concluded by stressing adherence to legal principles over public opinion, underscoring the EC's commitment to law-based operations. He reaffirmed the importance of accountability while maintaining that factual integrity remains unchanged by external influences or future developments.