BANGKOK, Thailand – The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the Election Commission (EC) to submit clarification and supporting documents by February 27, after dismissing a request for a seven-day extension in a complaint case under review. The EC had asked to extend the original February 23 deadline, citing the complexity and volume of the information involved.
After deliberation, the Ombudsman determined that the case carries implications for public confidence and requires an expedited review to establish the facts without unnecessary delay. The office concluded that additional time was not warranted given the public interest at stake.
Acting under Section 25, paragraph one (1) of the 2017 Organic Act on the Ombudsman, the Ombudsman issued a formal notice directing the EC to provide its written clarification and all relevant documentary evidence by the new deadline.
If the EC fails to respond within the specified timeframe, the Ombudsman will proceed with the inquiry and issue a determination based on the evidence available, in accordance with legal procedures. The office stated that the matter will be examined with transparency, fairness, and due diligence to safeguard rights and uphold the public interest under the Constitution. (NNT)
