Thailand Constitutional Court to hear ballot barcode case

The Constitutional Court of Thailand has scheduled a witness inquiry for August 26, 2026, regarding a legal challenge against the use of barcodes and QR codes on ballot papers used during the general election on February 8, 2026.

The case, initiated following 22 complaints received by the Ombudsman, alleges that the inclusion of these digital codes could allow for the identification of individual voters and their choices. This potentially violates the constitutional requirement for secret balloting.

The court has summoned five witnesses for the inquiry, including Saeng Boonmee, the Secretary-General of the Election Commission. Two other previously scheduled witnesses were excused as their written statements were deemed sufficient. The court has ordered that the proceedings will not be broadcast via live video or audio, limiting attendance to the involved parties and those authorized by the court.