Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party has decided to withdraw its name from the constitutional amendment draft, fearing it may violate a Constitutional Court ruling. Paradorn Prisnanantakul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, explained that this decision is not expected to affect relations with coalition parties.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn addressed the Bhumjaithai Party's decision to withdraw support for the amendment draft. Discussions within Pheu Thai's legal team highlighted concerns that the draft could conflict with the Constitutional Court's stipulation that a Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) cannot be elected by the people. The draft proposed by Pheu Thai suggested that each province elect three CDC members, who would then be submitted to Parliament for selection. This proposal was seen as potentially risky in relation to the court's ruling.
Mr. Paradorn further mentioned that the Bhumjaithai Party, after consultations with Pheu Thai, decided not to co-support the draft. He had discussions with Pheu Thai Party leader, Mr. Julaphan Amornvivat, and the party's secretary-general, Mr. Yoschanan Wongsawat, about the issue. The possibility of Bhumjaithai Party rejoining support for the draft depends on how Pheu Thai addresses the concerns raised.
He emphasized that the withdrawal is not expected to strain relations between the parties. Mr. Paradorn noted that ongoing discussions are crucial to prevent misunderstandings and highlighted the separation of legislative and executive branches. Mr. Julaphan remarked that the legislative branch would continue its work and address concerns, while the executive branch pursues its duties.