Bangkok: Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, an academic and former Election Commissioner, has called on the People’s Party and the Bhumjaithai Party to collaborate in forming a team dedicated to addressing constitutional amendments in accordance with a recent court ruling. This initiative aims to submit the proposed changes to the Cabinet for a referendum and seeks to enhance public participation in the process.
According to Thai News Agency, Somchai expressed his surprise at the Constitutional Court’s ruling regarding the referendum on constitutional amendments. The Court suggested that either three or two referendums would be appropriate, emphasizing that Parliament cannot allow the public to directly elect the drafters of the constitution. Somchai highlighted the need for a well-considered approach to determine the best path forward for the country.
Somchai advised against focusing solely on drafting an entirely new bill, suggesting instead that amendments to individual sections should be pursued concurrently. He
emphasized the importance of addressing Section 90, which deals with discrepancies in constituency and party-list ballots. These amendments can be undertaken by Parliament without the need for a referendum or involvement from the Constitutional Court. Failure to make these amendments could result in a repeat of previous electoral chaos.
He further suggested that the People’s Party should establish a working group to consider guidelines for referendum voting, working in conjunction with the existing group from the Bhumjaithai Party to achieve a successful outcome. Regarding the Pheu Thai Party, Somchai remarked that it is their prerogative whether to continue critiquing or not.
The joint working group from both parties would be tasked with ensuring that referendum questions 1 and 2 align with the Constitutional Court’s decision and propose a resolution to the Cabinet to hold a referendum. As per the referendum law, the final decision lies with the Cabinet.
On the matter of Parliament not permitting the publ
ic to directly select the constitution drafters, Somchai stated that while public participation should be maximized, a thoughtful and collective approach is necessary. He cautioned against placing blame and emphasized the importance of collaborative decision-making.