Bangkok: The Senate is gearing up for a significant discussion on the 2016 budget draft scheduled for September 1-2. Each senator will have 10 minutes to participate in the debate, which will cover the overall picture and focus on four key areas. Senator Pisit has highlighted the importance of careful consideration regarding the establishment of a committee to cancel MOUs 43-44, due to the potential risk of territorial loss.
According to Thai News Agency, Senator Pisit Apiwattanapong, spokesman for the Senate Special Committee on Senate Affairs, revealed that the Senate meeting on August 25th accepted the principle of the 150-section draft Rail Transport Act, which had been approved by the House of Representatives. He reassured that the Senate possesses the maturity to vote in favor of the Thai people's interests. However, he emphasized the need for the public to understand that the Senate requires time to carefully deliberate for the nation's benefit. He stressed that senators would not vote for the benefit of any particular group or political party, and that the large number of sections necessitates thorough consideration.
Mr. Pisit addressed the Senate meeting in a secret session on August 26th, where a special committee of 25 members was formed to evaluate the pros and cons of canceling the 2000 and 2001 MOUs related to the Thai-Cambodian border dispute. Proposed by Senator General Sawat Tasana, the discussion lasted approximately two and a half hours. The motion's proponents argued that the 2000 MOU, which involves border surveys and demarcation, conflicts with the 1:50,000 scale map used by Thailand, while Cambodia uses a 1:200,000 scale map. Additionally, the 2001 MOU, concerning overlapping maritime claims of 26,000 square meters, allegedly places Thailand at a disadvantage. Mr. Pisit argued that these MOUs, signed by a former Thai government, could lead to loss of territory, impacting national interests. He called for comprehensive consideration regarding their cancellation.
Looking ahead to next week's Senate meeting, Mr. Pisit mentioned that on September 1st, six written questions will be addressed, and the establishment of a standing committee will be considered to investigate the backgrounds, conduct, and ethical behavior of two individuals nominated for election commission positions.
Regarding the draft budget bill for fiscal year 2026, Mr. Pisit outlined that the debate will span two days, September 1-2, with each senator allotted 10 minutes. The debate will not proceed section by section, but will be organized by categories such as the overall budget, the treasury, the economy, society, disasters and natural resources, and other administrative aspects.