Bangkok: "Ratchaklao" asks, "Why do we have the Election Commission?" Over 60% of the anti-corruption budget is still outstanding, and the number of investigations has surged to 1,564 cases.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Radklao Intawong Suwannakiri, a Member of Parliament and Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, raised concerns in Parliament about the Election Commission's performance during the fiscal years 2024 and 2025. She expressed gratitude to the minority EC members, notably Mr. Sitthichot Intrawises, for their transparency in disclosing voting reasons, which she deemed essential for public trust in independent bodies.
Ms. Radklao highlighted that over 60% of the anti-corruption budget remains unallocated, questioning the Election Commission's operational efficiency, particularly in Strategy 1, which focuses on fostering political development through honest and fair elections. In fiscal year 2024, only 39.88% of the allocated budget for Strategy 1 was utilized, and in 2025, the figure slightly increased to 41.8%.
Ms. Radklao pointed out the backlog of projects and incomplete activities that carried over into subsequent years, emphasizing the direct impact on public trust due to delays in election oversight. In 2024, 7 projects were carried over, and in 2025, 4 additional projects remained incomplete.
The number of cases the Election Commission handled surged from 394 in 2024 to 1,938 in 2025, with criminal investigations rising from 162 to 1,564. Ms. Radklao questioned the Commission's capacity to manage the workload effectively, considering the justice system's reliance on timeliness and accuracy.
Ms. Radklao stressed that her intention was not to criticize but to reflect concerns about an institution vital to democracy. She underscored the public's desire for the Election Commission to function effectively and independently in monitoring elections to ensure integrity.
Ms. Radklao also addressed the Senate collusion case, viewing it as a significant test of public trust. She praised the minority Election Commission members for their transparency in explaining voting decisions, a critical aspect of trust in independent organizations.
She concluded by asserting the necessity of aligning Thailand's democratic practices with international standards, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Election Commission in achieving a credible electoral process.