Anutin Opposes Coup Prevention Bill in Thailand

[webfact]

Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy; NNT

 

The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has expressed firm opposition to a controversial bill by Pheu Thai Party that aims to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act. This bill, perceived as an effort to restrict the military's capability to conduct coups, has sparked significant debate.

 

Anutin, also the Interior Minister, voiced scepticism about the bill's potential effectiveness in preventing coups. He argued that it's often the actions of politicians themselves that create environments conducive to military intervention. “If we avoid creating such conditions, coups are less likely,” Anutin commented, reflecting on his experiences since the 1991 coup against Chatichai Choohavan.

 

Emphasising political integrity, Anutin advised politicians to serve with honesty and reduce societal divisions to prevent future coups. He stated unequivocally that Bhumjaithai, part of the ruling coalition, would not support the bill in parliament.

 

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechaiyachai attempted to assuage fears that the bill might diminish military authority and lead to friction between the government and armed forces, highlighting that the bill is under rigorous review by a governmental panel and the Council of Defence. “There is no intention to undermine military power,” Phumtham assured, seeking to maintain the harmonious relationship between the government and military.

Key aspects of the bill include shifting the power to appoint generals to a committee appointed by the cabinet, rather than permitting the armed forces to make these decisions internally. Furthermore, it designates the Prime Minister as the chair of the Defence Council, a role traditionally held by the Defence Minister.

 

Criteria for aspiring generals have been specified, barring those associated with undue influence, drug trade, human trafficking, and environmental destruction. Those under disciplinary or criminal probes also face restrictions unless their infractions are minor.

 

The bill expressly forbids military involvement in government takeover attempts. Additionally, it empowers military officers to refuse orders that support unconstitutional power seizures, protecting them from prosecution under military law. Penalties are stipulated for violators to include temporary suspension by order of the Prime Minister, facilitating an investigation.

 

As the bill stands, it's currently open for public comment on the parliament's website until 1st January. The unfolding discussions and the bill's potential implications highlight a critical debate on balancing military authority and democratic governance in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-10

 

 

[ikke1959]

At the next coup the law will abolished so it is no use to have a coup like this.. Even in the constitution it would no work as when the military stage a coup a new charter is being written

[BangkokReady]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

Emphasising political integrity, Anutin advised politicians to serve with honesty and reduce societal divisions to prevent future coups.

 

"If you don't want coups, then don't upset the ruling elite.  Legislation is not the answer."

[lordgrinz]

13 hours ago, webfact said:

He argued that it's often the actions of politicians themselves that create environments conducive to military intervention. “If we avoid creating such conditions, coups are less likely,”

 

So, if everyone licks the boots of the military, there will be no coup? Genius!

[thurien]

13 hours ago, webfact said:

Anutin, also the Interior Minister ... argued that it's often the actions of politicians themselves that create environments conducive to military intervention. “If we avoid creating such conditions, coups are less likely,”

 

the stark smell of real democracy...

 

[mran66]

Just look at the people he hangs out with and it's obvious he will never support law like this 

[khunPer]

On 12/10/2024 at 2:45 AM, webfact said:

He argued that it's often the actions of politicians themselves that create environments conducive to military intervention. “If we avoid creating such conditions, coups are less likely,” Anutin commented

Yes, that's how it is...