Social activist wins Bangkok senatorial election

BANGKOK: -- Leading social activist Rosana Tositrakul on Sunday pledged to perform 'checks and balances duties' regarding the government to the utmost of her ability after an unofficial senatorial election result found she scored a landslide victory in the Bangkok election.

According to the latest election count, she received over 700,000 votes, outpacing the first runner-up, Nitipong Hornak, by more than 300,000 votes.

Ms. Rosana said she had been rather unsure whether she would win in the senatorial race because potential winners often scored more than 500,000 votes.

But when she became aware of getting over 700,000 votes, she had to thank the people who gave their trust to her.

The activist said she believed all votes she received are simple scores counted transparently, without manipulation.

When the official results are certified, Ms. Rosana said, she would attend to her duties in applying a check-and balance awareness in regard tio the government, to ensure it administers country in a more transparent manner.

She also vowed to do her duty in the Parliament in a concrete manner and called on all people to work and help together for the interest of the country.

"I have introduced myself (a lot) as the senator candidate during the past 21 days and found Bangkokians had lost trust and felt fed up with politics.

"I have won the senatorial election partly because I have experience in checking (at least) some irregularities," she said.

Ms. Rosana said she was not concerned with becoming a senator when the new government is led by Samak Sundaravej.

"Good politics must have good governance. The checks and balances system must be maintained together with the administration. So, I think the government will give me an opportunity to work for the maximum benefit of the country," she said.

--TNA 2008-03-03

Okay, That's one senator who is known for her integrity. 149 others to outvote her.