Bangkok: Senator Pisit Apiwattanapong, spokesman for the Senate Affairs Committee, has confirmed his personal endorsement of all three draft amendments to the Constitution, despite reservations raised by the Prachachon Party regarding certain aspects. Pisit expressed his belief that the 67 senators, though limited in number, should ensure the passage of the drafts in the first reading in principle. He also noted the necessity for another drawing of lots concerning the Senate’s constitutional amendment committee.
According to Thai News Agency, Pisit addressed the upcoming joint parliamentary meeting on October 14-15, which is set to consider the three drafts of the amended Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand. He emphasized that after reading all three drafts, he supports accepting them in principle during the first reading. Pisit acknowledged that each draft has its advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to deliberate on their merits in the second reading, similar to other legislative processes.
Pisit further explained that only about one-third of the senators, or roughly 67 votes, are required to approve the first reading. Given this relatively small number, he is confident that all three drafts should pass this initial stage.
Regarding the People’s Party’s draft, Pisit mentioned his intention to reconsider Chapters 1 and 2, with which he personally disagrees. Additionally, he highlighted issues related to the selection process of the Constitutional Drafting Assembly, as the Constitutional Court has prohibited direct elections by the public. Despite these concerns, Pisit acknowledged positive aspects within the People’s Party’s draft that might be worth incorporating, which led to his acceptance of all three drafts for further consideration.
Pisit also commented on the controversy surrounding the selection of senators for the special committee on constitutional amendment. He explained that the initial list, created by the Senate Affairs Committee, included a name assigned to the Political Development Committee. This caused dissatisfaction among some senators, particularly regarding Dr. Premsak Piayura’s inclusion without clear reasoning. A memorandum addressing this issue is expected to be sent to Senate President Mongkol Surasajja for re-evaluation.
To resolve this, Pisit stated that a new drawing of lots is necessary to select nine committee members, ensuring transparency and fairness. He acknowledged that Dr. Premsak’s proposal to discuss the matter in a joint parliamentary meeting is binding, as it ultimately falls under the jurisdiction of the Legal Affairs Committee.