EC endorses new rules to holding a public referendum

BANGKOK, 8 January 2016 (NNT) - The Election Commission of Thailand (EC) has recently endorsed new rules for the public referendum.

The referendum will be held in the same way as senate elections. The EC will propose the rules to the National Legislative Assembly for consideration.

EC Deputy Secretary-General Thanit Sriprathet said that under the new rules, the election body will decide the timeframe to hold the referendum. He expects the Constitution Drafting Commission to provide the draft charter to the EC in April. The EC will provide copies of the manuscript to every household by June 20.

The EC has tentatively set the date for the public referendum on July 31, but it will most likely take place in May. Those for and against the new draft charter will have equal time to express their views during a televised event.

-- NNT 2016-01-08

Lets hope the manuscript is written in simple terms,so everyone

can understand what they will be voting for.

regards Worgeordie

"EC Deputy Secretary-General Thanit Sriprathet said that under the new rules, the election body will decide the timeframe to hold the referendum. "

Maybe they will also decide which people will be able to express their opinion in the referendums....

He expects the Constitution Drafting Commission to provide the draft charter to the EC in April. The EC will provide copies of the manuscript to every household by June 20.

The EC has tentatively set the date for the public referendum on July 31, but it will most likely take place in May.

Now that makes a lot of sense

Is there an escape clause like the '07 charter referendum by which if it fail, the junta can select any charter of their choosing or stay in power to write another one.

Is there an escape clause like the '07 charter referendum by which if it fail, the junta can select any charter of their choosing or stay in power to write another one.

Article 44?

The NCPO could also fall back on the same process the junta used with the 1997 constitution if it thinks the Meechai draft will not pass the referendum. Put it to a vote of the Junta-appointed NLA, get a majority vote in favor of the draft, then forward for royal endorsement.