Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party has submitted a draft amendment to the Constitution to the President of the National Assembly.
According to Thai News Agency, the Pheu Thai Party, led by Mr. Chusak Sirinil, a party-list MP and the party’s legal chairman, submitted a draft amendment concerning the drafting of a new constitution to Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, the President of the National Assembly. Mr. Chusak stated that this draft was prepared with consideration for constitutional prohibitions and the Constitutional Court’s ruling. He highlighted that previous constitutional amendment attempts through the Constituent Assembly (CA) process included public participation. The Constitutional Court has ruled that Parliament has the authority to initiate the desire for a new constitution, but a referendum must first be held to determine public interest. He emphasized that non-compliance with the Constitution would lead to petitions, preventing the draft’s success.
Mr. Chusak explained that the Pheu Thai Party proposes appointing a constituent assembly (CSA) comprising members of the public, selected by Parliament after elections. Once the new constitution is drafted, Parliament will approve it, followed by a referendum. The draft will be considered alongside those from Prachachon and Bhumjaithai parties. With Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announcing the dissolution of Parliament by January 2026, Mr. Chusak believes the third reading of the draft should be completed before then to allow the amendment process to proceed.
Mr. Chusak stressed the importance of the tasks ahead for the three political parties and the committee, pointing out the challenge of completing the draft within the third reading. He noted that historically, no bill has been considered within four months, and even ordinary laws require eight to nine months for review.
Reflecting on the 2017 Constitution, Mr. Chusak remarked that it has presented numerous challenges, impacting the current government’s effectiveness and hindering Thailand’s progress. He also mentioned discussions with the Speaker of the House, expecting the draft to be considered between October 14-15.
Addressing the differing origins of the Constituent Assembly (CAC) members from the three parties, Mr. Chusak acknowledged potential agreement difficulties but emphasized the need for reasoned discussions. He refrained from commenting on the quality of different parties’ drafts, focusing instead on staying connected to the people.
Regarding Mr. Nattawut Saikua’s suggestion of a unified draft from Prachachon and Bhumjaithai parties, Mr. Chusak stated it was Mr. Nattawut’s opinion and that Pheu Thai stands by its submitted draft. He noted that decisions on discussing drafts would involve all parties without criticism.
Mr. Chusak dismissed the need for a formal group to engage with the Senate, expressing confidence in the current social climate’s support from government, opposition, and others. He emphasized that the Senate’s decision remains its own, despite political parties proposing new drafts.
When asked about potential agreement among the three parties on a main draft, Mr. Chusak was uncertain, suggesting discussions based on the MOA, which Pheu Thai did not sign.