Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party reiterated its commitment to amending the constitution, emphasizing that it has no intention of delaying the process. The party raised concerns about whether the delay was due to certain political parties using it as a bargaining tool to avoid a censure debate. They also urged that the agreement between the Bhumjaithai and Prachon parties should not be disregarded, to prevent public disappointment.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Khattiya Sawatdiphon, a party-list MP and Deputy Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, announced the progress of the constitutional amendment draft at the National Assembly’s Committee on the Draft Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand. She has considered 14 of the over 30 sections, aiming to move forward to a referendum and pave the way for a new constitution that belongs to the people. Despite the rejection of Pheu Thai’s proposal for a Constituent Assembly (CA) in the first reading, the party emphasized the importance of public engagement and diversity in the drafting process.
Ms. Khattiya highlighted the historical significance of the Constituent Assembly model, citing its role in drafting the 1997 Constitution. She argued that the proposed model would ensure independence and protect against political interference. The party’s proposal for a Constituent Assembly was not approved at the committee level, with the majority opting for a single-level constitution drafting committee selected by Parliament.
Concerns were expressed about the origins and diversity of the Constitution Drafting Committee and the Committee for Public Hearings and Participation. Despite the challenges, the Pheu Thai Party remains committed to aligning its efforts with public interests and minimizing political group formations.
Ms. Khattiya refuted allegations that the party is delaying the constitutional amendment process, stating that the Pheu Thai Party has long worked towards amending the 2017 Constitution. She questioned whether the delay was due to political parties using the amendment as leverage to prevent debate.
The party reiterated its commitment to a new, democratic constitution, calling for an extraordinary session to ensure the amendment process aligns with the Bhumjaithai-Prachachon Party agreement, allowing a referendum alongside the upcoming election. Ms. Khattiya urged all parties to prioritize constitutional amendments and hold certain political parties accountable for their commitments.
Despite the cancellation of the Constituent Assembly establishment, the Pheu Thai Party and the People’s Party remain hopeful for public participation, supported by senators and the Bhumjaithai Party. Ms. Khattiya expressed optimism about the amendment’s passage through a third reading, contingent on Senate support.