WITH the first round of the triple-tired senatorial election having proceeded smoothly today (June 9) as expected several “big name” favourites were chosen and crossed to the next round, Amarin TV said.
Among them were former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat, who is de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra’s brother-in-law, and former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn.
Also cruising to the next round were former police officer Pol. Lt. Col. Santhana Prayoonrat, Mongkutwattana Hospital’s director Dr. Rienthong Nanna and former actor/politician Tankhun Jitissara.
However there were problems at some of the 928 polling stations including candidates not coming on time or bringing electronic devices such as headphones along with them.
Some candidates fell sick while voting took place which disqualified them from the next round.
Under the rules adopted by the Election Commission, each of 46,000-plus contestants vying to grab a total of 200 Senate seats can pick two choices from among fellow candidates including themselves at each level.
All contenders are divided into 20 professional categories with which they may currently make or have previously made a living.
After today’s district-level election provincial level is scheduled for June 16 and finally the national level for June 26.
CAPTIONS:
Top and Front Page: Some of the prominent candidates who have moved to the next round of senatorial election.
Insert: Election Commission secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee. Both photos: Amarin TV
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