Nakhon Si Thammarat: The Election Commission of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has initiated the distribution of ballot papers and election equipment to officials in anticipation of the by-election for Constituency 8, scheduled for April 27. The Chairman of the Election Commission visited the area today to oversee the election preparations.
According to Thai News Agency, the Community Hall in Chang Klang District was bustling with activity as officials from various polling stations gathered to collect ballots and election materials for the by-election to fill the vacant Member of Parliament position in Constituency 8. Mr. Ittiporn Boonprakong, Chairman of the Election Commission, was present to observe the delivery and ensure everything was proceeding smoothly.
The Election Commission Chairman remarked that the arrangements were progressing as planned, with all materials and ballot printing completed in accordance with the Commission's schedule. All 233 voting units were fully prepared for the election day.
Once the polls close at 5:00 p.m., each unit is expected to complete vote counting within two hours. The central operations center will then begin tallying the results, with the winner anticipated to be announced by 10:00 p.m.
Addressing concerns about potential vote-buying amidst intense competition between coalition parties Bhumjaithai, Democrat, Klatham, and the opposition party Prachachon Party, the EC chairman assured that no official complaints have been lodged. However, any allegations will be thoroughly investigated. He emphasized the importance of evidence, noting that the EC offers a reward of 400,000 baht for credible information and encouraged the public to report any suspicions.
This by-election involves four districts: Chawang, Chang Klang, Na Bon, and Phipun, encompassing 117,711 eligible voters. Chawang District, with 10 sub-districts, has the highest number of eligible voters at 51,637. Phipun District has 5 sub-districts with 22,973 voters, while Chang Klang and Na Bon Districts each have 3 sub-districts, with 22,414 and 20,693 eligible voters, respectively.