Bangkok: Nikorn Chamnong, director of the Chart Thai Development Party and secretary of the joint committee on the referendum, believes that holding the election and referendum concurrently on March 29, 2026, could save 5 billion baht. He highlighted the significance of the third reading of the draft constitution, which requires a one-third majority vote, underscoring the need for discussions between MPs and Senators to reach a mutual understanding.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorn emphasized that Constitution Day was an appropriate occasion to consider the second reading of the draft constitution. He mentioned that an extraordinary parliamentary session might not be necessary, as a regular session could accomplish the task within 60 to 150 days. However, he acknowledged that such a session aligns with the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Bhumjaithai Party and the People’s Party, which aims for completion by year-end.
Mr. Nikorn also discussed a motion by Mr. Paradorn Prisnanankul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, regarding the referendum process. The Constitutional Court’s ruling clarified that only Parliament can draft the referendum questions, thus invalidating the use of the Referendum Act for this purpose. Mr. Nikorn pointed out that cost-saving measures are essential, as holding the election and referendum separately would escalate the budget to 10 billion baht, compared to 6 billion baht if combined.
The second reading of the draft constitution has revealed contentious articles, particularly those conflicting with the Senate. While legislative processes typically require a simple majority, the third reading demands a one-third majority, raising concerns about its passage. Mr. Nikorn stressed the importance of dialogue between the House of Representatives and the Senate to ensure progress.
Mr. Nikorn also addressed the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. He chairs a working group under the Special Committee to Study the Advantages and Disadvantages of Cancelling the 2000 and 2001 MOUs. The committee is finalizing a report that presents balanced arguments for and against the cancellation of these agreements, with the aim of submitting it to Parliament by December 19th. The findings of this study, he believes, will provide the government with valuable insights for decision-making.
Finally, Mr. Nikorn stated that the committee’s work on MOUs 43-44 did not focus on their revocation but rather on presenting divergent viewpoints. He noted that the ongoing border conflict might influence the committee’s study, but the ultimate decision lies with the government, which will consider the committee’s observations to guide national policy.