In its third pre-election report released today, ANFREL expressed concern over vote buying and the lack of understanding of the new election system amongst voters.

"Today our local partner, the People's Network for Elections in Thailand (P-NET), has released information about villages in Maha Sarakham where residents in several villages have decided to return money they received from party canvassers to the Election Commission. We encourage voters everywhere to follow this fine example and fundamentally improve the fairness of Thai elections," said Mr. Damaso Magbual, ANFREL's Head of Mission.

ANFREL's report released today details allegations of vote buying reported to its observers involving several large political parties giving cash, in-kind gifts, and payment to attend campaign events.

"The fact that such allegations are made across the country and against many parties suggests that the problem of vote buying is real and prevalent. Sadly, people generally have little faith that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.

"We hope that the Maha Sarakham cases will bring Thailand a step closer to elections free from money politics. We call on all political parties to refrain from vote buying and allow for voters to make an independent decision," said Mr. Magbual.

ANFREL also expressed concern that voters still do not understand the new electoral system.

"With only a few days to go before the election, it is worrying that many people interviewed by ANFREL observers are confused about how to vote. Not everyone understands the changes to the constituency and party-list systems. The risk is that election results will not accurately reflect public sentiment," stated Mr. Magbual.

The report also notes that the administration arrangements for this weekend's election appear to be in place, with the Election Commission successfully meeting deadlines to designate polling stations and select polling staff. However, ANFREL observers have expressed some concern that the level of training given to new polling staff has not allowed them to gain a complete understanding of election law and polling procedures.

ANFREL Pre-election Repot iii