Bangkok: MPs from the People's Democratic Reform Committee have submitted a draft of the Military Service Act (Amendment...) B.E. .... aimed at abolishing compulsory military service and replacing it with a voluntary system. Today, at the Parliament building, Mr. Ekkarach Udomamnuay and Mr. Kittipong Piyawanno, both MPs from the People's Party, held a press conference to discuss the proposed changes to the Military Service Act.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkarach Udomamnuay announced that the draft amendment, originally submitted by Mr. Parit Wacharasindhu during the previous parliamentary session, has been updated to reflect current circumstances and resubmitted for consideration. The amendment seeks to address the long-standing issue of compulsory military conscription in Thailand, which affects the majority of Thai men. The proposal suggests that transitioning to a voluntary enlistment system could enhance national security missions, as well as improve the quality of life for soldiers through better income, welfare, and career advancement opportunities. Currently, the conscription selection process is underway, with over 60,000 red cards, which indicate exemption from service, still in circulation.

The People's Party is urging the government to follow through on policies supported by the Bhumjaithai Party, particularly those concerning volunteer soldiers. As part of the opposition, the People's Party plans to push for legal reforms to end compulsory military service. They are committed to scrutinizing government policies, especially in areas such as the misuse of soldiers as personal servants, corruption involving ATM card collection, and incidents of torture in military camps. The party has also formed a network with soldiers who are entering conscription, encouraging them to report any observed misconduct.

Mr. Kittipong Piyawanno emphasized the public's desire for this year to mark the end of compulsory military service, urging the government to provide clear plans for implementing a volunteer military system. He highlighted growing concerns over the welfare of conscripted soldiers, citing recent incidents of torture and rights violations. Mr. Piyawanno called on the government to seriously address these issues to protect the rights and dignity of soldiers who serve the nation, ensuring they are not subjected to abuse or exploitation.