BANGKOK (NNT) - In a recent parliamentary session, the clarity of establishing a committee to study the approach to conducting a public referendum for constitutional amendment and the direction of constitutional changes for a new draft was questioned by the opposition.

 

In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai, who is the chairman of the committee studying the approach, confirmed there is no intention to delay the process. He emphasized that the constitution involves all segments of society, so a collective agreement is essential to prevent new conflicts and ensure cautious progress.

 

Phumtham reassured that the public would be allowed to voice their opinions, and efforts are underway to finalize the constitution as swiftly as possible. The timeline set for the completion of the new constitution that would gain acceptance across all groups in society is approximately 3 to 4 years.

 

However, the committee is exploring ways to minimize the frequency of referendums, as each session costs between 3-4 billion baht. The government aims to hold only two referendums, although the rules could require 3-4 sessions, to reduce expenses and ensure the new constitution, except sections 1 and 2, in line with all supplementary laws before the general elections.

 

Phumtham stated the committee would invite all political parties, both in the ruling coalition and the opposition, for their input. While the Move Forward Party, the head of the opposition, may not accept the invitation to join the committee, it doesn’t hinder the amendment process. Dialogue between parties will still be open in the future to seek collaboration from all sides.

 

He declined to provide specifics on the elections for the constitutional drafting assembly but noted that further steps will be determined after listening to feedback from all factions. If there is a firm consensus, the government is prepared to move forward. Ultimately, the cabinet wishes the new constitution to have maximum public participation, be as democratic as possible, and achieve the best outcomes.

 

By Na-ark Rojanasuvan

 

Full story: NNT 2023-10-06

 

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When I read "DPM" I thought straight away of "damage per minute"... then realised I wasn't playing an online game.

Sure spend money on committees,and referenda, with laws and words that no one understands, about laws that are so unclear that the constitutional court have to decide every time

That is waste of money. 

13 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

confirmed there is no intention to delay the process.

The very forming of a committee is an intention to delay the process.

Here we go again... The dust hasn't settled from the BS during the 'forming' of the new government and Pheu Thai is already amending...

3 - 4 years? Add in the political nonsense and let's round it to 10. We'll be knee deep in PM turnover at that point.

20 hours ago, Sir Dude said:

When I read "DPM" I thought straight away of "damage per minute"... then realised I wasn't playing an online game.

Devious Practices Minister

This guy looks like he has had his snout in the trough way to long..

On 10/7/2023 at 8:35 AM, mikebell said:

The very forming of a committee is an intention to delay the process.

And does anyone really think the Senate will be affected?