Bangkok: iLaw mobilized citizens to storm the Election Commission to pressure them to indict 229 individuals accused of collusion in the Senate election. The organization orchestrated a unique form of protest by organizing sports events in front of the EC office, with notable participation from activists and politicians.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was part of a larger strategy led by the Internet for Law Project (iLaw) and the Human Rights Lawyers Association. The protest featured three sports activities: a badminton championship, a blue ball toss into a box, and a 2.29 km sky running event. These activities were designed to demand that the Election Commission indict the 229 senators and others involved in the alleged collusion case, as identified by the 26th Sub-Committee on Investigation and Inquiry. The protestors called on the EC to act as an independent body that upholds the national interest and protects citizens' rights without political interference.
Prominent figures such as Parit Wacharasindhu, Chayapol Sathondee, and Pannika Vanich attended the rally, alongside former Senate candidates and numerous supporters. At 3:30 PM, the participants formed the number 229 with their bodies, symbolizing their demand for justice. The peaceful event concluded with a strong message to the authorities.
Yingcheep Atchanon, Director of iLaw, emphasized the group's primary demand for the EC to indict all accused individuals. He warned that if the EC fails to act, iLaw would release information about those involved, leveraging their database of over 90,000 pages of evidence. Yingcheep called on ministers fearing exposure to press the EC for an indictment and encouraged citizens to scrutinize their Senators and report findings to iLaw.
The Election Commission had previously announced that a vote would take place on September 14, 2016, urging the public to remain vigilant amidst potential distractions. Yingcheep also called for public engagement up to September 13th, inviting citizens to propose further activities to pressure the EC into action before the final rally.
The ongoing efforts by iLaw and its allies underscore a significant push for accountability and transparency in the electoral process, challenging the status quo and advocating for justice in Thailand's political landscape.