Bangkok: Suspicious details have been brought to light in the ongoing investigation into alleged collusion during the Senate elections, with warnings issued to the Election Commission (EC) regarding potential misconduct. Prinya Tevanarumitkul, an Associate Professor at Thammasat University, exposed irregularities, highlighting the dismissal of 229 individuals who initially appeared to have merit. He cautioned the EC's seven top commissioners that ignoring the evidence might lead to criminal charges for dereliction of duty. The use of cheat sheets, while not illegal, was noted as a possible fraudulent act.
According to Thai News Agency, the seminar titled "2nd Anniversary of the Senate Election - In-Depth Analysis of Evidence in the Senate Collusion Case" saw key figures like Prinya Tevanarumitkul emphasizing the need for honest and fair elections. This is especially crucial as the Senate has significant influence over the selection of officials in independent organizations, such as the Constitutional Court and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The EC, under scrutiny for its actions, possesses the constitutional power to refer dishonest election cases to the Supreme Court. Currently, the EC is working towards establishing two subcommittees to investigate the Senate election within a 90-day timeframe.
Prinya highlighted the issue of using documents to sway voter choices, noting that while bringing in documents isn't illegal, their use could challenge the election's integrity. The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct ruled that the EC's failure to address document use wasn't neglect of duty, given their resolution to confiscate such documents on election night. However, the honesty and fairness of the election remain under the Supreme Court's jurisdiction.
Prinya further stated that the Secretary-General of the Election Commission should have submitted the investigation file within a year, a deadline that has passed. The EC is also expected to conclude the case file within 90 days, with any delays requiring notification to relevant parties, which hasn't been done, amounting to dereliction of duty.
He also explained the difference between Section 69 of the Election Commission Act and Section 157 of the Criminal Code, noting that neglect of duty under Section 69 doesn't require specific intent, making it a criminal offense. The discrepancy between the findings of two EC committees regarding the involvement of 229 individuals was highlighted. Prinya urged the public to request investigation files to ensure transparency and warned that failure to act on evidence would constitute abuse of power, allowing aggrieved parties to sue.
Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a former Election Commissioner, criticized the EC for design flaws and alleged misconduct, such as vote-buying and providing incentives like travel expenses and catering. He listed eight instances of wrongdoing, warning the EC against declaring no wrongdoing if evidence exists. He stressed that fair and honest decision-making is crucial for the EC's reputation.
Former Senator Jermsaks Pinthong stressed the importance of integrity within the EC and highlighted evidence of manipulation during elections. He noted that power in the Senate could lead to a monopoly of state power through vote-buying and manipulation. Jermsaks called for transparency and honesty from the EC, suggesting that sending all 229 names to the Supreme Court would require those senators to cease their duties, impacting ministers, the Prime Minister, and potentially leading to the use of reserve senators.
This ongoing investigation underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability within the electoral process to maintain democratic integrity.