A group of protesters demanding a recount continues to guard the ballot boxes for the parliamentary election in Chonburi Constituency 1. They have invited monks to perform merit-making and almsgiving ceremonies for good fortune, and they maintain their insistence on a recount.
At 07:30 on 12 Feb 2024 GMT+7, reporters observed the atmosphere this morning at the Chonburi Municipal Badminton Court in Bang Plasoi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chonburi Province. Citizens guarding the ballot boxes participated in a Buddhist almsgiving ceremony at the storage site for the election boxes in Constituency 1, Chonburi, to invoke good luck before continuing their duties to oversee the security of the ballot boxes and election materials.
The atmosphere was calm and orderly, while the citizens continued to wait for clarity from the Election Commission (EC) after the two-day deadline had passed. Many parties have called for a prompt update to build confidence in the verification process and the transparency of the election.
Asked about the situation, Ms. Yuwadee, 53, said she wants the EC to announce whether they will conduct a recount or not, because the delay is prolonged. She also mentioned that local residents include children and the elderly; although the noise is not loud, it may disturb sensitive older people’s sleep.
Mrs. Kanittanan, 55, said she actually wants a recount, but if possible, she would prefer a new election altogether. She questioned the trustworthiness of the ballot boxes that have problems. Having previously served as an election officer, she knows that boxes must be properly sealed after inspection. Since some boxes were found open, she is not confident and wants a new election held.
Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi Province, visited the gymnasium in Constituency 1, Chonburi, accompanied by Police Major General Pongpan Wongmanithes, Chief of Chonburi Provincial Police, and Mr. Worachak Satapornpinyo, District Chief of Mueang Chonburi, to inspect the situation following the unrest regarding the election process. He also gave an interview to the media about the approach to managing the local situation.
The governor stated that his visit aimed to monitor the overall atmosphere and maintain order in the area. He requested cooperation from citizens and protest groups to conduct their activities or express their views strictly within the legal framework. He emphasized that no actions should be taken that could damage government property or cause inconvenience to local residents.
When asked about concerns that dissenting groups might confront or clash with each other, the Chonburi governor acknowledged some slight worries but expressed confidence that the people of Chonburi are united, share goodwill, and can coexist rationally without escalating tensions.
Regarding the inspection of the storage site for the ballot boxes, the governor explained he has not personally inspected the facility but expressed confidence in the Election Commission’s procedures, affirming they comply fully with legal requirements. He also noted that the site is leased and managed by the EC in accordance with regulations.
Reporters further inquired about complaints concerning elections in several areas beyond Chonburi Constituency 1, questioning whether there is a risk of a domino effect of unrest. The governor opined that such a scenario is unlikely because EC officials have strictly followed legal procedures. He believes that once the public receives full information about the legal processes, any initial doubts will diminish in the near future.
Chonburi Province and relevant agencies continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure that all processes proceed smoothly, transparently, and within the legal framework.
