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Bhumjaithai Emphasizes Role as Participant, Not Referee, Defers to Election Commission on Barcode Issue on Ballots

Politic14 Feb 2026 16:29 GMT+7

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Bhumjaithai Emphasizes Role as Participant, Not Referee, Defers to Election Commission on Barcode Issue on Ballots

The Bhumjaithai spokesperson defers to the Election Commission to clarify the barcode issue on ballots, emphasizing that they are participants, not referees, and must wait for clarity. Comparing to the 2023 election, it took 36 days to certify the results.

On 14 February 2026, Ms. Nan Boonthida Somchai, prospective MP for Ubon Ratchathani and Bhumjaithai spokesperson, spoke about the current political situation, noting the public demonstrations following the election that could escalate. She said the main issue does not depend on Bhumjaithai but on the Election Commission's process and when it will certify the election results. Comparing to the 2023 election, the Election Commission took 36 days to officially certify MPs. As participants, they must wait to see how each subsequent step unfolds. She emphasized that the work of the Election Commission, other bodies, and any petitions must be considered separately. As prospective MPs, they can only wait now and cannot respond. In the 2023 election, no incidents occurred, yet the Election Commission still took 36 days.

When asked about concerns over the groups currently protesting, Ms. Nan said everyone has the right to express their opinions through any appropriate channels. It is impossible for everyone to share the same view, but any petitions or decisions must be based on evidence and the law.

Regarding the Administrative Court accepting a case number to suspend election certification due to the barcode issue on ballots, Ms. Nan said it is the Election Commission’s responsibility to explain. She reiterated that everyone is currently a participant, not a referee. It is the election organizer’s duty to provide clarification, and they must wait to see what happens. She noted that such incidents are not unique to this year, having occurred in 2023 as well, so the outcome depends on the legal rulings.