Bangkok: The Democrat Party has launched an investigation into alleged proxy voting within the Bangkok City Council, aiming to file complaints with the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the Ministry of Interior. They assert that this action is not politically motivated but is necessary to ensure transparency within the council.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation was announced at a press conference held at the Democrat Party headquarters by Mr. Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, spokesperson for the party, alongside Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMA) members from the Democrat Party. Among those present were Mr. Napapol Jeerakul, Ms. Nipaphan Junglersiri, Mr. Pinit Kanchanchusak, Mr. Suchai Pongpianshop, and Mr. Anurak Lertwattanapaiboon. The allegations center on proxy voting by BMA council members affiliated with the People's Party during a recent council meeting.
Mr. Napapol Jeerakul explained the electronic voting system used by the council, which involves member identification cards. On the day of the incident, 41 votes were cast despite only 40 members being present, suggesting misuse of the voting system. Bangkok City Council member Phattharasak admitted to voting on behalf of another member, Sairam, during the session, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
Ms. Nipaphan Junglersiri, an eyewitness to the incident, confirmed seeing Council member Phattharasak press his own vote button and then that of another member. This discrepancy in voting numbers led to a dispute during the meeting, which Phattharasak eventually acknowledged. She emphasized that any confusion or malfunction should have been immediately reported to the meeting chairman.
Mr. Pongsakorn Kwanmuang outlined the Democrat Party's response, emphasizing that the incident reflects an abuse of public power and a violation of the "one person, one vote" principle. The party plans to file a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission and submit a letter to the Minister of Interior to investigate the ethical misconduct. They have also requested clarification from the Bangkok Metropolitan Council's leadership.
Mr. Pongsakorn concluded by asserting that the Democrat Party's actions are aimed at supporting the transparency policy of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council Chairman. The party is committed to ensuring accountability and adherence to legal standards to combat corruption and set an ethical standard within the council.