Somchai is unconcerned about the Election Commission calling Chaiyan as a witness in the barcode case, noting that the contexts between Thailand and the UK differ greatly. He emphasizes his willingness to testify on behalf of the public in the legal fight.
On 9 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, former member of the Election Commission, commented on the EC's plan to summon Mr. Chaiyan Chaiporn, a special lecturer at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Political Science, as a witness in the barcode ballot case. He said it is the EC's right to invite anyone for testimony, but he believes that the information Mr. Chaiyan presented about the UK's election system differs clearly from Thailand's legal framework and data protection measures.
Mr. Somchai explained that in countries like the UK or Singapore, election evidence is sent directly to be stored in the "court" and is scheduled for destruction within six months, reflecting a very strict system. This contrasts with Thailand, where evidence is stored in multiple places, increasing the risk of data leaks and easier tracing back to voters. Therefore, these similarities and differences must be carefully considered. He also stressed that if the Constitutional Court allows equal opportunity for witness examination, while the EC has Mr. Chaiyan as a witness, the public's side is ready to have him testify to protect voters' ballot secrecy as well.