Parliamentary Session Scheduled to Debate Constitutional Amendment in December

Bangkok: The extraordinary parliamentary session will convene in December to deliberate on a constitutional amendment, as confirmed by Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, Speaker of the House of Representatives. He emphasized his readiness to hold a special parliamentary session for the second reading of the constitutional amendment, highlighting the necessity of adhering to the Constitutional Court’s ruling.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wan Nor indicated that while the coalition parties have announced preparations for a special parliamentary session beginning December 8th, he has not yet received official notification from the government. Discussions with Mr. Sirote Patphan, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, revealed that the session could start as early as December 1st, contingent upon an announcement in the Royal Gazette. This decision ultimately lies with the government, as they hold the authority to call for a special session. Informal talks with the parliamentary committee revealed that the session is planned for December 8-10th.

Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor stressed the need for consultation with the whips of all three parties to ensure smooth proceedings. The duration of each party’s debate during the second reading will depend on the parliamentary committee’s reservations regarding the amendment proposal. Although there will be no time limit for debates, it must not mirror the first reading. A 15-day pause is mandatory after the second reading before the third reading vote can occur, which is essential to finalize the constitutional amendment.

Addressing concerns about the draft constitution review committee’s content, Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor explained that it is the parliamentary committee’s responsibility to thoroughly amend and discuss the constitution to avoid omissions. This includes securing approval during the third reading to enable a national vote on the draft constitutional amendment alongside the election, slated for late March or early April 2026.

Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor acknowledged minor disagreements but expressed confidence that they would be resolved in the second and third readings. He noted that the main issue in contention is the Drafting Assembly’s alignment with the ruling. The absence of a Constituent Assembly was discussed, and Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor stated that if the Constitution Drafting Committee, appointed by parliament and elected by the people, encounters no conflicts regarding the ruling, it should be resolved. Final discussions among government MPs, opposition MPs, and the Senate are expected to reach a resolution, paving the way for a referendum during the election.