The Constitutional Court has begun its meeting to issue a ruling on the barcode and QR code case on election ballots. The Election Commission Chairman is leading the team to listen to the court, with the ruling to be broadcast live starting from 2 PM onwards.
At 09:30 on 28 Sep 2026 GMT+7, the Constitutional Court convened for oral arguments, consultation, and to vote on a case brought by the Ombudsman, who cited 22 complaints requesting a ruling under Section 213 of the Constitution. The case concerns the Election Commission's conduct of the general election for House of Representatives members on 8 Feb 2026, which required ballots to include barcodes and QR codes. This measure may compromise ballot secrecy and raise constitutional concerns. The court will announce its ruling at 14:00.
Udom Sitthiviratham, President of the Constitutional Court, issued a court announcement regarding the special opening of the court on a public holiday. The court convened for oral arguments, consultation, and a vote on the barcode and QR code ballot case. The announcement explained the necessity of opening the court on this day, as the case hearing and ruling had been scheduled well in advance to avoid disrupting the timetable for other cases set throughout October 2026.
At the Constitutional Court office lobby, two large TVs have been set up to broadcast live footage from the courtroom for those following the ruling at 14:00. The area within the court's jurisdiction has been cordoned off as a standard security measure.
At Government Complex Building A, only the Constitutional Court offices are open, while other government agencies remain closed. Only journalists covering the election ballot ruling attended. The respondents, led by Narong Klunwarin, Chairman of the Election Commission, are reported to attend the ruling in person. Additionally, petitioners who filed complaints through the Ombudsman are also expected to be present.
Three possible ruling outcomes are anticipated.
Option 1 The court finds no constitutional violation, ruling that ballots with QR codes and barcodes cannot be linked to individual voters.
Option 2 The court determines that the ballot design process has legal issues but does not invalidate the election. The court may direct relevant agencies to take further action or final decisions.
Option 3 The Constitutional Court rules that the election did not adhere to principles of direct and secret voting, invalidating the election. This would affect the status of the House of Representatives and the government, necessitating a new election.
The court's ruling is to be closely followed from 14:00 onwards.