Bangkok: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has reaffirmed his commitment to amending the constitution, emphasizing his intention to dissolve parliament within four months, without resorting to pressuring a referendum. He conveyed that he has yet to review whether the Constitutional Court's decision will impact the establishment of a Constituent Assembly.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin spoke following the Constitutional Court's majority decision, which granted parliament the authority to initiate the drafting of a new constitution. The Prime Minister noted that the process requires public approval through a referendum. His commitment stems from the Bhumjaithai Party-led government's original intention, in agreement with the Prachachon Party, to swiftly draft an elected constitution. Anutin assured that discussions with the Prachachon Party will follow, adhering strictly to the agreement.
Anutin clarified that the term "MOA" frequently associated with him might not be entirely accurate, suggesting that it should simply be referred to as an "agreement." He underscored the importance of honoring the conditions agreed upon with the People's Party.
Addressing the timeline for the first referendum and the forthcoming election, Anutin asserted that there is no substantial pressure. He assured that once the stipulated four months conclude, the House of Representatives will be dissolved immediately. Emphasizing the absence of pressure post-dissolution, he urged mutual trust among the working parties. Anutin reiterated the agreement between the Bhumjaithai Party and the Prachachon Party, which identified dissolving the House as the optimal solution for the current situation. In light of the absence of an effective prime minister during the Pheu Thai Party-led government, Anutin took on the role, accompanied by an agreement to dissolve the House within four months, a commitment he intends to honor.
When questioned about the implications of the Constitutional Court's ruling on the election of a Constituent Assembly (CNA), Anutin admitted he had not reviewed the details due to a busy schedule. His responsibilities included verifying the qualifications of prospective ministers, receiving reports from the Minister of Defense regarding a GBC meeting on the Thai-Cambodian border, and attending a parliamentary meeting. He reassured that all agreed-upon conditions would be fulfilled, eliminating any cause for concern.
Anutin concluded by stating that constitutional amendments are a prerogative of the House of Representatives. If achievable within the four-month timeframe, the process will proceed accordingly. Otherwise, it will be deferred, followed by the dissolution of parliament before the next election. Each party must communicate their constitutional amendment plans to the public effectively.