Bangkok: "Prits" has reaffirmed that the parliament holds the authority to draft a new constitution, further clarifying that a referendum will be conducted after the parliament passes the third reading of the new draft by the Constituent Assembly, ensuring compliance with the existing verdict.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Panusaya Wacharasindhu, a Member of Parliament from the Prachachon Party and the proposer of the draft amendment to Section 256 of the constitution, highlighted the upcoming parliament meeting scheduled for February 13-14. He emphasized that this amendment presents the closest opportunity to drafting a new constitution following the Constitutional Court's ruling. Previously, the president of the parliament had not included the amendment of Section 256 in the agenda. However, after Mr. Panusaya submitted relevant information, it was decided to incorporate the amendment into the meeting's agenda. He stressed that if the parliament does not accept the principle of amending the constitution on February 14, the chance to have a new constitution before the next election might be lost, marking this as a crucial opportunity.
Mr. Parit highlighted that the amendment of the constitution is a governmental policy announced to the parliament, serving as a public commitment. He urged the prime minister to play a proactive role in ensuring the amendment's success, noting that the prime minister has not communicated or proposed any draft amendment, leaving only the Pheu Thai Party's draft proposal on the table. He called for the prime minister to step up in the days leading to the parliament's consideration to enhance the chances of a successful amendment.
Addressing concerns about the parliament's ability to amend the constitution following statements from senators, Mr. Panusaya reiterated that the Constitutional Court's ruling confirms the parliament's power to draft a new constitution. He clarified that if the parliament approves the principle of the two current draft amendments, it does not imply an immediate drafting of a new constitution. A referendum must first be held during the third reading, as stipulated by Article 256 (8) of the constitution. If the public consents, the process to establish a Constituent Assembly to draft a new constitution can commence. Once the assembly completes the draft, another referendum will be conducted, adhering to the Constitutional Court's ruling without contravening any legal procedures.
As the spokesperson for the Prachachon Party, Mr. Parit discussed the party's efforts to amend the constitution, highlighting communication with society, MPs, and senators to address concerns. The party organized a debate involving approximately 30 MPs, focusing on the need for a new constitution and the drafting process, hoping the prime minister will support this initiative.
Mr. Panusaya compared the constitutional amendment drafts of the Pheu Thai Party and the Prachachon Party, noting that their content is consistent with the draft accepted by the parliament in 2020. He emphasized that the content of the current drafts does not exceed what was previously proposed and accepted.
In the event that the parliament considers sending the amendment to the Constitutional Court for interpretation, Mr. Panusaya expressed his intention to oppose this move, arguing that the process has complied with the Constitutional Court's ruling. He asserted the solidity of his collected information and preparedness to persuade parliament members. He questioned the motives of those seeking a ruling from the Constitutional Court, referencing a similar situation in 2024 when the court did not accept the ruling.
Mr. Prisht concluded by stating that if the parliament fails to approve the draft amendment, the Prachachon Party will continue to advocate for constitutional amendments and a new draft, urging the government to fulfill its policy commitments.