Bangkok: "Prit" has voiced support for amending Section 156, aiming to facilitate the creation of a new constitution. He argues that the 2017 constitution lacks legitimacy and stresses the importance of returning power to the people.
According to Thai News Agency, the joint parliamentary session recently convened to consider urgent matters, including three draft amendments to the constitution. These amendments are designed to pave the way for drafting a new constitution. The drafts include the Draft Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, Amendment (No. ..) B.E. ...., which proposes amendments to Section 156 to mandate joint parliamentary meetings and introduces Chapter 15/1 on drafting a new constitution. The drafts were proposed by Mr. Panusaya Wacharasindhu of the People's Power Party and Mr. Chusak Sirinil of the Bhumjaithai Party, along with a third draft from Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and a member of the Bhumjaithai Party.
Mr. Pris highlighted that the current constitution lacks democratic legitimacy due to its origin in a coup and an unfree referendum. He pointed out inconsistencies with democratic principles and advocated for a new constitution drafted with public participation. He noted that the review is an agenda item to accept principles for drafting a new constitution, with all three drafts sharing the goal of progressing towards change through parliamentary mechanisms.
Mr. Pris emphasized that studies by various committees, including those from the previous parliament, have identified structural problems in the 2017 Constitution. He cited the 2023 election results, where over 70% of the population expressed a desire for a new constitution, as a reflection of public sentiment.
He further explained that many current political issues stem from the system established by the 2017 Constitution, which includes ineffective oversight and an electoral system that distorts public will. Mr. Pris identified three major crises arising from the current constitutional structure: democratic decline, outdated policies, and unresolved corruption, despite the constitution's anti-corruption stance.
Amending Section 156 is seen as critical for establishing a legal framework for drafting a new constitution, a mechanism not clearly defined in the current constitution. Proposals for a new constitution often encounter legal and political hurdles.
Mr. Panusaya clarified that amending Section 156 aims to move the country towards a transparent and democratic process without overthrowing the existing constitution. He emphasized a participatory process for creating a new constitution, contrasting it with the 2017 constitution's legitimacy issues and obstacles to rights and freedoms.
Mr. Pris acknowledged that a new constitution is not a panacea but a means to escape the current predicament. Addressing concerns, he argued that drafting a new constitution does not ignore economic issues but fosters political and economic stability. Comprehensive constitutional amendments address root causes rather than piecemeal solutions.
Mr. Pris assured that the new constitution will undergo at least two referendums, mitigating concerns about an inferior version. He likened the 2017 constitution to a structurally flawed house, advocating for a new foundation designed by the people.
In conclusion, Mr. Pris outlined the People's Party's guidelines for drafting a new constitution, emphasizing public participation, democratic legitimacy, and consensus from all parties to ensure the new constitution genuinely belongs to the people.