Doubts mount over EC's poll handling

Almost two weeks after the election, the embattled Election Commission (EC) has yet to endorse any winning candidates.

- Chairith Yonpiam

People hold placards during a protest on Feb 14 in Bangkok calling for a nationwide recount as the Election Commission (EC) faces pressure following the general election on Feb 8. REUTERS

(REUTERS)

Instead, it finds itself under mounting pressure, facing criticism and petitions from multiple directions.Several complaints have been submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman and the Administrative Court, questioning the EC’s performance and alleging irregularities in the Feb 8 poll, including discrepancies between ballot papers and vote tallies.

Public anger has also been fuelled by the inclusion of QR codes and barcodes on ballots and tally sheets, which critics argue may violate the constitutional principle of ballot secrecy. Questions have also been raised about counting and vote-reporting procedures. Civil society groups and the People’s Party have petitioned relevant agencies, seeking recounts or even a fresh election.