Bangkok: Nattawut Buapratum has announced the formation of a working group to address disagreements over constitutional amendments. He disclosed that the committee will need at least 10 meetings and aims to complete the process by November.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattawut, a party-list MP for the Prachachon Party and chairman of the special committee overseeing the constitutional amendment draft, discussed the amendment's progress. He noted that a special session's necessity remains undecided. Cooperation has been established with the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate, who have prepared for a potential special parliamentary session. The discussions tackle contentious issues, such as the direct selection of a constitutional drafter, while allowing for indirect selection. Consideration is also being given to forming a Constituent Assembly (CDA). The new constitution must adhere to the Constitutional Court's guidelines, and restrictions on amendments are being considered.
Mr. Nattawut revealed that the working group includes members from various sectors. These include Dr. Cholanat Srikaew from the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Chawengsak Rengpaiboonwong from the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Pris Wacharasindhu from the Prachachon Party, and Senators Mr. Pisit Apiwattanapong and Mr. Naraset Prachayakorn. The group will aim to resolve outstanding issues and reach consensus. The committee will start a section-by-section consideration next week. If consensus is reached, a vote might not be necessary, but voting will occur if disagreements persist.
Efforts will accelerate over the coming weeks, with the number of meetings contingent on committee content. While Mr. Nattawut hopes for a swift resolution, he emphasized that the need for a special session depends on the content under consideration. He acknowledged the Election Commission's readiness for a referendum and election, suggesting that the committee's progress would determine the timing of these events. He anticipates the completion of deliberations by November, though the scheduling of any special parliamentary sessions remains uncertain.
The Constitutional Amendment Committee's next meeting is preliminarily set for November 5-6 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and November 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.