An opposition MP candidate urged the Election Commission (EC) to disclose progress regarding ballot papers found discarded in a Samut Prakan garbage pile. He warned that without clear information, he would pursue legal action, viewing the process as unresolved and fearing the winner's reputation could be tainted and public trust undermined.
At 10:55 a.m. on 25 Feb 2026 GMT+7, at the Election Commission (EC) office, Mr. Weeraphat Kantha, an opposition MP candidate for Samut Prakan's 6th district, submitted a letter demanding updates from the EC about election documents found in a garbage heap in Samut Prakan. He explained that after ballot papers were discarded at the Samut Prakan landfill, he filed a complaint to the EC last week. Now, nearly 10 days have passed without any updates on the fairness and integrity of the election process following his complaint. Three days later, the EC acknowledged the incident as true, confirming the ballot papers were genuine but stated that counting had already concluded and the election's fairness was unaffected. However, the discarded papers showed markings on three points from three different areas, which he believes resulted from consolidation of ballot boxes before disposal. This raises concerns as it sets a troubling precedent and suggests other similar instances may exist elsewhere. He questioned how the EC plans to proceed.
"I have waited nearly 10 days without any communication from the EC, only media reports. The latest news indicates the EC is investigating involved individuals, all denying responsibility and refusing to admit how marked ballots ended up in the garbage. According to the Parliamentary Election Act, if there is suspicion of unfair or dishonest election conduct, the EC can order a recount. Yet, the EC claims ignorance about who discarded the ballots and insists the election was fair. Such statements from the EC are inappropriate. Therefore, I am submitting this letter today to follow up and demand a report on the current status, so that all election candidates are informed directly rather than relying solely on media updates. If the EC fails to provide clarity, I reserve the right to take legal action." Mr. Weeraphat said.