Seoul: The Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) has commenced data collection in preparation for a financial audit of the National Election Commission (NEC) following ballot shortages that occurred during the recent local elections. This announcement was made by BAI Chair Kim Ho-cheol during a press briefing on Wednesday as criticism continues to grow against the election watchdog over the unprecedented shortage of ballot papers during the June 3 elections, which led to the temporary suspension of voting at 26 polling stations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Ho-cheol stated that public concern over the violation of voting rights has been significant. "After a decision by the Council of Commissioners yesterday, we started gathering data today," Kim said. "I anticipate we can conduct an actual audit around July after determining the scope and period of the audit."

The NEC, an independent constitutional body, is generally protected from comprehensive performance audits to prevent political influence. However, a financial audit is considered acceptable as it does not carry political implications. "Although we are unable to conduct a performance inspection of the NEC, it is our responsibility under the Constitution to conduct an accounting audit of a constitutional organization," Kim added.

In light of the ballot shortages, there have been increasing calls for significant reforms within the NEC, with some even suggesting its dismantlement. A parliamentary investigation and a joint probe by the prosecution and police are currently underway to ascertain the cause of the ballot shortages and determine accountability.

President Lee Jae Myung has also suggested that amending the Constitution could be considered to enhance oversight of the election process. Meanwhile, the NEC has issued an apology, attributing the ballot shortages to an incorrect prediction of voter turnout. They have asserted that these shortages do not warrant a rerun of the elections nor have they altered the election results.