Bangkok: The Election Commission (EC) has clarified its stance on a recent court ruling regarding the bringing of documents or cheat sheets into the Senate election venue. The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases issued a verdict in the case of bringing documents into the election district, as detailed in Case No. At 125/2567, Red Case No. At 13/2568, dated January 28, 2568. The court found no direct prohibition under the Organic Act on Senators B.E. 2561 against bringing such documents, including those with candidate numbers, into the election district. Since there is no legal provision defining it as an offense, candidates are permitted to bring documents into the election venue.
According to Thai News Agency, the EC had previously issued regulations prohibiting the distribution or introduction of self-introduction documents at the election venue for Senators. However, the Central Administrative Court later revoked this regulation, granting candidates the right to bring self-introduction documents into the election venue. The EC acknowledged that without a law prohibiting such actions or defining them as offenses, candidates cannot be restricted from bringing documents into the election venue.
The court also addressed concerns regarding the legality of cheat sheets and the EC's role in ensuring fair elections. It ruled that the mere act of bringing cheat sheets into the election site does not constitute an offense. The EC, tasked with maintaining the integrity of senator elections, must base its actions on evidence or reasonable suspicion of wrongdoing. The EC's resolution to regulate elections was aimed at upholding honesty and fairness, and any measures taken must comply with legal stipulations.
Before the second round of national elections, the EC exercised its authority under the Organic Act on the Acquisition of Senators B.E. 2561 to ensure fair and orderly elections. Despite efforts, the EC and the National Election Director faced challenges, as evidenced by a lawsuit involving the seizure of hidden cheat sheets. The actions taken during the second round of the national election were in line with the EC's resolutions to maintain election integrity.
The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct's verdict, detailed in Black Case No. At 125/2567, Red Case No. At 13/2568, is under appeal as the plaintiff seeks an extension for a second appeal.