The Ombudsman sent a letter to the Election Commission (EC) demanding an explanation within seven days following complaints that printing barcodes on election ballots may violate the constitution. Before deciding whether to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court, the Ombudsman will dismiss the case if found without basis.
At 5:30 p.m. on 16 February 2026, reports emerged that the Office of the Ombudsman sent a letter to the Election Commission (EC), requesting clarification regarding complaints submitted to the Ombudsman that the EC's printing of barcodes and QR codes on election ballots may allow tracing back to the individual voter, revealing which candidate or political party they voted for, potentially violating Article 85 of the constitution and Section 96 of the Organic Act on the Election of Members of the House of Representatives B.E. 2561 (2018). The EC is required to provide a response within seven days.
Previously, on 13 February, twelve complaints concerning election management were submitted to the Ombudsman. Among these were petitions requesting the Constitutional Court to consider the barcode printing issue on ballots. The Ombudsman’s letter asking the EC for clarification stems from three complaints: one from Mr. Phattharapong Supakorn, also known as lawyer Aun Buriram; another from Mr. Thankwin Rattawat Angkoon, a businessman and independent academic; and a third from a citizen representative who wished to remain anonymous.
. According to the Ombudsman's procedure, after receiving the EC's explanation, the office will review the case and present it to the Ombudsman panel for consideration. If the panel determines the complaint has merit and possibly violates the constitution, the case will be forwarded to the Constitutional Court. If found baseless, the case will be dismissed.
Currently, there are two Ombudsmen: Mr. Songsak Saichue, Chairperson of the Ombudsman, and Police Lieutenant General Yuttana Sanguanphokhai, Ombudsman. The third position is under selection and will be reviewed by the Senate during the extraordinary parliamentary session on 26 February.