In a surprising turn of events, former Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, closely linked to influential political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, has been outvoted in his bid to become a senator. The dramatic decision unfolded amidst the national-level senatorial elections overseen by the Election Commission.

 

Somchai, who hails from Chiang Mai and had earlier navigated the district and provincial election tiers with success, was widely speculated to be a strong candidate for Senate speaker. This speculation stemmed largely from his connection to Thaksin, who is a dominant figure in the Pheu Thai party. The election outcome, however, refuted these predictions.

 

Somchai is no stranger to political turbulence. He famously served as prime minister in 2008 but faced major opposition from "Yellow Shirt" protestors, who occupied Government House to block his governance. His tenure was notably brief and marked by high tensions.

 

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, associated with Pheu Thai, emphasised that Somchai’s defeat clearly demonstrates that the current government was not involved in any secretive electoral manipulation. This comes in response to widespread allegations of potential foul play in the senatorial elections.

 

Despite Somchai’s failure, many other high-profile candidates succeeded, including ex-lawmakers, former provincial governors, and other senior officials. Unlike the 500 MPs elected directly by the public, the 200 senators were elected through a multi-tiered system, with candidates securing votes from their peers across district, provincial, and national levels.

 

Election Commission Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee confirmed that investigations into potential electoral fraud are ongoing. Allegations have surfaced about candidates possibly being bribed and acting as "puppet" contestants in exchange for their votes.

 

If serious electoral misconduct is confirmed, those elected could face immediate suspension and further legal action. The Election Commission remains vigilant to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, aiming to bring any wrongdoers to justice.

 

The outcome has sparked fresh conversations about the state of Thailand's political landscape, highlighting the complexities and challenges within its electoral system.

 

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

 

-- 2024-06-28

 

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2 hours ago, webfact said:

Election Commission Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee confirmed that investigations into potential electoral fraud are ongoing. Allegations have surfaced about candidates possibly being bribed and acting as "puppet" contestants in exchange for their votes.

Like most elections.

2 hours ago, webfact said:

The Election Commission remains vigilant to ensure the integrity of the electoral process

Let's rephrase this:

'The Unelected Commission remains ...'

How about placing the vigilance of the electoral process into the hands of the electorate, ie., their representatives?

After all the Constitution says the sovereignty of the state belongs to the Thai people.

Not often a member of the Thaksin clan get outvoted. Hope the trend contiues. 

At least now another old man will have more time for Thaksin's grandchildren. 

aww, they use the same brand hair dye, "Coal Black", I wonder if they discussed it, Bubbles probably advised them.

Step in the right direction

Who would want a man with " 36 " tattooed on his face  

Oh! what a shame. Let's hope the trend continues. 

2 hours ago, OneMoreFarang said:

At least now another old man will have more time for Thaksin's grandchildren. 

 

that was a good burn

Got bounced off by the Yellows some sixteen years ago and, as it seems, nothing has changed since ........ 

Lets see, the fuse is getting shorter and shorter - let me get the popcorn 

his bid, so someone offered more for the place at the trough to get unusual rich on their government salary....

5 hours ago, jippytum said:

Not often a member of the Thaksin clan get outvoted. Hope the trend contiues. 

A close member, he's the husband of Thaksin's powerful chiang Mai sister.