The Election Commission issued a statement offering support to polling station committees across the country after criticism of the early voting process. It praised their dedication and sacrifice and reaffirmed that the 8 February election will be honest and transparent.
On 4 February 2026, reporters reported that on 3 February, the Election Commission issued a statement to encourage polling station committees and election workers involved in organizing the House of Representatives election and the referendum scheduled for Sunday, 8 February 2026.
Following the Royal Decree dissolving the House of Representatives in 2025 and the Election Commission's announcement setting Sunday, 8 February 2026, as the date for the general election of the House of Representatives, the Prime Minister's Office also declared that the referendum would be held on the same day as the general election.
During the early voting for the House of Representatives election on Sunday, 1 February 2026, there was criticism and accusations against the polling station committees and the Election Commission that the process was disorderly, contained errors, and might suggest corruption. The polling station committees consist of officials and local voters—about 20,000 people—who may feel discouraged and disheartened by these events. The Election Commission recognizes that these individuals are volunteers who dedicate their energy and efforts to help ensure the House of Representatives election is conducted orderly, honestly, and fairly. All workers performed their duties to the best of their abilities amid public expectations to successfully carry out the election mission.
The Election Commission acknowledges the dedication and pressure faced by polling station committees and all election workers. It understands that some of these workers involved on Sunday, 1 February 2026, will also participate in the election and referendum on Sunday, 8 February 2026, totaling approximately 1.5 million people. The Commission is confident that no encouragement or support for corruption occurred during the processes on 1 and 8 February 2026. Nevertheless, the Commission recognizes that some imperfections or disruptions might have occurred during the duties performed.
The Election Commission thanks all polling station committees and election workers who performed their duties on Sunday, 1 February 2026, and sends encouragement to those who will work on Sunday, 8 February 2026. The Commission is confident that our great collective effort is the key to advancing democracy steadily and fairly. Every sacrifice made today fulfills a duty to the honored nation and forms the vital foundation of democracy and the country's highest benefit.
