Bangkok: The Election Commission is embroiled in tense discussions over the introduction of a new ballot format for three polling units, with fears that changes could impact ongoing legal matters related to barcodes. The Commission is also contemplating a recount in more than 20 polling units after uncovering discrepancies in the ballots, alongside an urgent investigation into the improper disposal of vote tally sheets discovered in a Samut Prakan landfill.
According to Thai News Agency, the Election Commission continued its deliberations on the printing of new ballot papers scheduled for use on February 22, 2026. This follows a decision to conduct a re-vote in three specific polling units: Polling unit 9 in Khan Na Yao, Bangkok; Polling unit 3 in Mueang Nan District, Nan Province; and Polling unit 4 in Chaiyawan District, Udon Thani Province. The Commission remains undecided on whether the new ballots will maintain the same format used in the previous election, which included serial numbers, ballot numbers, and barcodes. This decision is critical as any changes might lead to legal disputes concerning the constitutional validity of the barcode system.
Further complicating matters, the Election Commission is expected to order a recount in over 20 additional polling units due to inconsistencies between the number of ballots cast and registered voters, known as "ballot discrepancies." These discrepancies, initially noted on the EC's unofficial election results website, have delayed the release of official vote counts. A recount, if decided, is anticipated by the end of February.
In a related development, the Election Commission has summoned the Director of Elections for Samut Prakan Province to explain the discovery of discarded tally sheets at the Lat Luang Municipal landfill. These sheets, related to elections in Constituency 6, were found to be incomplete and incorrectly stamped, prompting further investigation. The inquiry seeks to uncover whether the disposal was accidental or intentional and if it was a staged act.
The Election Commission has also resolved to limit public communications to written documents, avoiding press conferences that have previously led to misinterpretations. In response to a complaint about the traceability of barcodes on ballots, the Commission has clarified to the Personal Data Protection Commission that elections were conducted with integrity and secrecy. A clarification requested by the Ombudsman is currently being prepared.