Speaking at a briefing to familiarise the observers with the election process and the national referendum, EC secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee said it is the first time both have been held on the same day, thus requiring careful preparation to ensure transparency, fairness and compliance with the law.
The observers are participating in an election observation programme running from Feb 5–9 in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces. That includes briefings, field observations on polling day and post-election assessments, reports the Bangkok Post.
Mr Sawaeng noted that Thailand has invited foreign observers to monitor elections since 2001.
Deputy EC secretary-general Pol Maj Nattawat Sa-ngiamsak said the observers will monitor the distribution of election materials to polling station officials in Bangkok and surrounding areas today.
On polling day, they will observe the process from the opening of polling stations through voting, vote counting and the closing of ballot boxes. On Feb 9, the observers will take part in a session to summarise their observations.
He said some observers have expressed interest in monitoring the vote in provincial areas, adding the EC has coordinated with local election offices, police and related agencies to facilitate these visits and ensure security in both Bangkok and upcountry locations.
The presence of foreign observers reflects the level of international interest and will reinforce public confidence in the electoral process while also demonstrating the EC’s commitment to conducting the vote in a transparent and impartial manner, he added.