In Khon Kaen, a social media clip has gone viral showing campaign leaders distributing money to buy votes through two purple banks in Election District 9, Phon District, Khon Kaen. After seeing the clip, the Election Commission Director ordered an investigative team to conduct a fact-finding mission on-site.
At 09:00 on 5 Feb 2026 GMT+7, at the field in front of Khon Kaen Provincial Hall, Mr. Panthep Saowakosol, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen, presided over the opening of a forum for public opinion on the upcoming referendum. The event was attended by Mr. Watchara Sisan, Director of the Election Commission Office, government and private sector heads, as well as over 500 students and participants. The event also featured a procession of Harley motorcycles and parade trucks joining the activities.
Mr. Watchara Sisan, Director of the Election Commission Office, explained the referendum opinion forum. The Prime Minister has announced the referendum date as 8 Feb 2026 GMT+7, which coincides with the general election for new members of the House of Representatives. The Cabinet has approved the referendum question asking citizens whether they agree that a new constitution should be drafted. Eligible voters can mark only one choice: agree, disagree, or no opinion. This referendum is not an immediate drafting process but a public consultation on whether to create a new constitution.
Therefore, it is necessary to promote and campaign to inform the public, providing opportunities for citizens to participate and express opinions impartially, equally, and with respect for differing views. This aims to increase public understanding and awareness of the referendum's importance, leading to genuine democratic participation based on the true will of the people.
Before the forum began, Mr. Watchara Sisan, Director of the Election Commission Office in Khon Kaen, spoke to the media regarding a social media clip showing vote-buying. He stated that the Election Commission is aware of the matter and is currently verifying the facts. An investigative team from the Khon Kaen Election Commission Office has been assigned to conduct a thorough fact-finding mission, which is ongoing.
From the clip circulating online, it is initially understood to be from Election District 9, Phon District, Khon Kaen. So far, no victims have come forward or filed complaints. The authorities must first investigate the origins of the clip, identify involved parties, and clarify the purpose behind it.
"We request time to carefully verify the information. It is the duty of the investigative committee to handle this matter directly. If anyone files objections regarding the case, appropriate actions will follow. Even without formal complaints, based on the evidence, it remains the Election Commission’s responsibility to proceed, regardless of whether there are complainants or not, as it is a matter that has come to the Commission’s attention."
The Director of the Khon Kaen Election Commission Office added that the office has also received complaints regarding illegal inducements in District 5, which are currently under urgent investigation. He warned anyone contemplating violations of election laws, especially all candidates, to be cautious regarding acts of providing money or goods. Likewise, voters should not accept money or benefits, as both giving and receiving violate election laws and carry penalties.