Will new referendum law help unlock Thailand’s political impasse – or just deepen divisions?

[snoop1130]

Thai voters drop their ballots at a local polling station during the constitutional referendum in Bangkok on August 7, 2016. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN / AFP)

 

Hopes for a new and more democratic Thai Constitution rose this week when the referendum bill sailed through Parliament.

 

The government-sponsored bill paves the way for a public vote on whether the population wants a new Constitution to be written by a charter drafting assembly (CDA). The new bill was passed after the Constitutional Court ruled in March that a referendum must be held before any overhaul of the charter.

 

But despite the developments, observers remain skeptical that the dream of a new charter will come true. Previous moves to amend the charter began in late 2019, but failed due to delaying tactics deployed by Palang Pracharath MPs and backed by senators who feared losing their power.

 

Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/will-new-referendum-law-help-unlock-thailands-political-impasse-or-just-deepen-divisions/

 

-- © Copyright Thai PBS 2021-06-25

 

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[Srikcir]

Referendums do not unlock a democracy wrapped in chains.

There must be first "freedom from oppression and servitude."

https://www.manhattanlife.com/Blog/10-things-ypu-didn't-know-about-the-statue-of-liberty

 

[hotchilli]

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Previous moves to amend the charter began in late 2019, but failed due to delaying tactics deployed by Palang Pracharath MPs and backed by senators who feared losing their power.

And they are still in place.

[Excel]

In a referendum people can only choose on whatever the government puts before them. You think this administration will give the opportunity for the people to choose what really needs to happen ? It will be just another whitewash to ensure that the feudal system remains  to enrich the rich further and maintain the majority in near poverty by comparison.

[Thailand]

I guess any referendum would be conducted in the same free and fair way that the last election was.

[mikebell]

Only another Army will unlock the divisions in Thailand.

[holy cow cm]

4 hours ago, Srikcir said:

Referendums do not unlock a democracy wrapped in chains.

There must be first "freedom from oppression and servitude."

I really like how you put that.