Bangkok: The Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) has confirmed that today's parliamentary elections and constitutional referendum are proceeding smoothly throughout the country.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Saeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the ECT, reported that polling stations opened at 8:00 AM, and within the first few hours, the process has been orderly, with no incidents reported, particularly in the border provinces where security has been heightened.
Mr. Saeng highlighted that approximately 1.5 million election officials are on duty to support the 53 million eligible voters, of which around 2 million have already participated in advance voting. He expressed hope that the remaining eligible voters would cast their votes by the 5:00 PM deadline, emphasizing the importance of public participation in the election process.
The ECT expects unofficial election results to be available by 11:00 PM tonight. Mr. Saeng outlined the vote counting procedure, which involves simultaneous counting from three ballot boards to ensure accuracy. Any objections to the vote count can be raised immediately at polling stations, and the committee's decision will be final, although recorded objections can be submitted for review within three days.
On the issue of vote-buying, Mr. Saeng reported arrests in five suspected cases across three provinces. The ECT, in collaboration with over 100,000 police officers, is focused on preventing such incidents to protect the integrity of the election. In Ratchaburi province, evidence of voter lists and money was found, and further investigations are ongoing in Surat Thani, Chiang Rai, and Ratchaburi.
Addressing social media conduct on election day, Mr. Saeng reiterated the prohibition against voters displaying their ballots or engaging in campaigning, as per Section 99 of the Organic Law on the Election of Members of Parliament. Such actions could lead to complaints and potential legal charges.
Finally, Mr. Saeng assured that the situation in the Thai-Cambodian border area is being managed effectively, while additional security measures are in place in the southern border provinces to ensure a secure voting environment.