EC announces recount of votes, new elections after irregularities in some seats

Thai election authorities have ordered a recount of votes and new elections in some polling areas after finding irregularities in last month's elections. Thailand's Election Commission said in a statement Thursday that it had ordered a recount in two polling stations and new elections in six polling stations due to the number of voters not matching the number of ballots in the March 24 general elections.

The recount involves two polling stations in Khon Kaen province and the new elections were required at polling stations in provinces Lampang, Yasothon, Phetchabun, Phitsanulok, and Bangkok. Sawaeng Boonmee, the commission's deputy secretary-general, said the date of the new election will be announced later but it will likely take place after Thailand's new year's holidays in mid-April.

(With inputs from agencies.)