Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party, which came second in the unofficial general election results, said he accepts defeat but not election rigging.
He called on the public to report any irregularities in the election or related processes—such as vote counting—to his party or to civil society networks, to ensure that no wrongdoing has occurred.
Natthaphong said the party has appointed its chief legal adviser to examine complaints related to alleged irregularities or election fraud.
He made the remarks after unrest broke out in several provinces, where groups of people gathered to allege election rigging and fraud.
He said the People’s Party is currently gathering information and coordinating closely with local candidates. Based on available data, the party estimates it won approximately 88 constituency seats and secured around 30 party-list seats, though the final results have yet to be confirmed.
Natthaphong emphasised that while the People’s Party accepts the overall election outcome, it remains committed to protecting the integrity of every vote.
He cited several examples of alleged discrepancies, including Lampang Constituency 2, where more than 7,000 invalid ballots were recorded despite a victory margin of only about 2,000 votes.
The party has formally requested a recount in that district.
He also pointed to Pathum Thani, where the Election Commission (EC) reportedly closed the vote-counting room.
Although the recount did not result in a significant change, Natthaphong stressed that transparency and fairness in the electoral process are essential and cannot be overlooked.
Natthaphong has appointed Teera Suthewarangkoon, the party’s legal adviser, along with members of the party’s executive team, to lead a comprehensive investigation into all reported irregularities.
Meanwhile, Phumtham Wechayachai, a senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, which came third, posted on social media expressing concerns over the integrity of the election amid growing controversy.
Phumtham noted widespread public dissatisfaction, saying many voters believe the election was marred by irregularities. He also criticised the Election Commission and certain government agencies, saying their conduct had raised serious doubts about the fairness of the process.
He said there must be accountability for any irregularities, adding that if laws were broken, those responsible must be brought to justice.
