Politics Thai Senate Election Scandal: 229 Accused of Vote-Rigging

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

An investigative panel has recommended prosecuting 229 individuals, including Bhumjaithai Party executives, for alleged widespread vote-rigging during Thailand’s Senate election last year. The Election Commission (EC) must now consider these recommendations and may approach the Constitutional Court to potentially dissolve the Bhumjaithai Party.

 

The accused include 138 sitting senators and 91 individuals connected to the Bhumjaithai Party, encompassing both executives and affiliates. This panel, formed by representatives from the EC and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), put forward these recommendations on 17th July, following independent investigations into the alleged electoral misconduct.

 

Upon examining the evidence, the committee concluded that sufficient grounds existed to suggest the accused facilitated the election of senators through dishonest means. The alleged actions violate Section 113 of the constitution, which mandates that senators remain independent and uninfluenced by political parties.

 

Bhumjaithai, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has consistently denied any involvement in manipulating the June 2024 election outcome. With the investigation entering its second phase, the EC is set to receive the findings for further analysis by investigators, who will then report to key officials, such as the EC's secretary general or deputy.

 

Controversy has arisen over the involvement of EC Secretary General Sawaeng Boonmee in the case, given his previous role as national director of the 2024 poll, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Consequently, authority will be delegated to one of his deputies.

 

Since March, the investigations have targeted a group of senators known as the "blue bloc," closely linked to Bhumjaithai, which was recently the second-largest party in the government coalition. The results of the Senate vote on 26th June last year revealed surprising outcomes, notably an unusual concentration of winners in provinces where Bhumjaithai enjoys significant support.

 

Particularly striking was the election of 14 senators from Buriram, the largest from any province. Buriram is known as the stronghold of Newin Chidchob. Despite holding no official position and having claimed political retirement, Chidchob is believed to wield considerable influence within the Bhumjaithai Party.

 

With tension mounting, the EC’s imminent decision will be closely watched. Should the case advance to the Constitutional Court, it could lead to the disbandment of Bhumjaithai, profoundly reshaping Thailand’s political landscape.

 

The developments underscore the growing scrutiny over electoral processes in Thailand, as the country navigates complex political dynamics. With charges recommended and allegations mounting, this unfolding story is one to watch in the coming weeks.

 

As events progress, the outcome could significantly impact Thai political alliances and governance. Stay tuned as we follow this story closely, providing updates on key developments and decisions affecting Thailand’s political future.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

 

 

[Mavideol]

 

229 accused of vote rigging but  NONE found guilty 555

[bdenner]

Only 229 = gimme a break, add 2 x Zeros and give we ignorant Farang a reasonable estimate.

[Hunz Kittisak]

This current power struggle between the ruling coalition partner parties is exposing a lot of unsavoury behind the scenes details. 
I say that’s a good thing