Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party is advancing efforts for a constitutional amendment after a court decision that restricts the electorate's ability to directly choose members of the Constituent Assembly. They are set to propose an amendment to Section 256 of the Constitution, Chapter 15, to allow the National Assembly to appoint members before a national referendum. The party is calling for collaboration from all political entities to address this issue, leaving it to the government to decide the timing of the referendum and whether to hold initial and subsequent rounds concurrently.
According to Thai News Agency, Pheu Thai Party members Mr. Chusak Sirinil, Mr. Sorawong Thianthong, Dr. Cholanan Srikaew, Mr. Chaturon Chaisang, Mr. Wisut Chainarun, Mr. Kokaew Pikulthong, Ms. Manoporn Charoensri, and Mr. Sutham Saengpathum held a press conference discussing the implications of the Constitutional Court's decision on the constitutional amendment. Mr. Chusak emphasized the party's commitment to a democratic constitution despite challenges, stating that amendments to Chapter 15 are necessary for drafting a new constitution, which will involve the National Assembly's three readings and a subsequent referendum as per Section 256 (8).
The court's ruling prohibits direct election of the Constituent Assembly by the public, suggesting an indirect selection through parliamentary resolution. The party is considering this approach for future proposals. The government holds the responsibility for deciding on the referendum's schedule and whether to combine the initial and secondary referendums. The referendum will question the public on the necessity of a new constitution and agreement with the proposed drafting principles.
Mr. Chusak reiterated the party's dedication to drafting a democratic constitution swiftly. The party intends to complete the draft within a week to expedite its inclusion on the parliamentary agenda. Mr. Chaturon highlighted the need for a new motion to amend Section 256, fostering public participation in the constitutional drafting process. The party seeks cooperation from all political parties to amend Section 256, facilitating the drafting process post-referendum.
The Pheu Thai Party aims for consolidation of the two referendums to save time and resources, requiring early discussions on amending Section 256. Mr. Chusak clarified that the referendum should not test the government's resolve but emphasized the government's duty to consider its feasibility, with a Cabinet resolution and a 90-day timeframe in mind.