Anutin Confirms Bhumjaithai’s Commitment to Two-Tier Majority Vote.

Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has affirmed that the Bhumjaithai Party will support a two-tier majority vote if the joint referendum committee's resolution is presented in the parliament. He emphasized that the decision aims to allow the people to have a genuine say on crucial issues. Anutin highlighted that every process has its timeline, and if an agreement is not reached in the current parliamentary session, it should be postponed to the next. The determination of whether the matter constitutes financial legislation will depend on interpretation. According to Thai News Agency, Anutin, who leads the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed concerns raised by Chusak Sirinil, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office. Sirinil had noted that if either house of the parliament does not approve the draft referendum bill, the parliament may need to extend the timeframe by 180 days. This extension could potentially categorize it as financial legislation, necessitating a 10-day susp ension. Anutin plans to discuss these implications with coalition party leaders, reiterating that interpretations will guide the process. He underlined the party's stance on requiring a double majority or two-tier referendum, especially in light of significant legal amendments, such as those concerning Koh Kood. Anutin stressed the importance of careful legislative changes to prevent future criticisms of oversight or mistakes. Anutin expressed the Bhumjaithai Party's intention for any referendum to ensure genuine public participation in deciding pivotal national matters. He stated, "It is not a referendum of people just coming to vote," underscoring the need for comprehensive engagement. When questioned about the potential outcome if the joint referendum committee's proposal were voted upon in the lower house, Anutin reiterated adherence to established rules and procedures. He acknowledged diverse opinions, stating that agreement would lead to supportive votes, while dissent would lead to opposing ones. Anu tin emphasized respect for all outcomes, asserting that the process is not about conflict but about democratic decision-making. Regarding the constitutional amendment's timeline, Anutin noted that it is bound by time constraints and procedural steps. He indicated that if amendments cannot be finalized within the current government's tenure, they would be deferred to the next parliamentary session.