Bangkok: The Prime Minister confirmed that the constitutional amendment process will proceed based on the recent referendum that garnered 21 million votes, while making it clear that the government is not obligated to adhere to the original draft of the amendment. The Prime Minister highlighted that the Bhumjaithai Party will not challenge or modify any articles related to sovereignty or the monarchy.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, during an interview, emphasized the need for the constitutional amendment to reflect the people's needs. He mentioned a 60-day deadline, ending on May 14th, for the clarity and confirmation of the draft amendment. He also reiterated that the amendment process must start in the current Parliament and should not be linked to any previous drafts proposed in prior parliamentary sessions.

In response to whether the Cabinet would confirm its stance following the referendum's outcome, Anutin stated that the entire process must initiate in Parliament. He maintained that the government's actions should not be bound by the decisions of the previous government, as the resolution to amend the constitution coincided with the election day.

When questioned about the necessity for Parliament to initiate the amendment process as per the Constitutional Court's ruling, the Prime Minister affirmed that the ruling had already been issued. He clarified that it is Parliament's responsibility to commence the process, and the government should not interfere in parliamentary proceedings.

Regarding whether the process would need to start from scratch, the Prime Minister indicated that this decision lies with Parliament. He reiterated his commitment to not alter any articles related to Thailand's sovereignty, leaving the rest open to discussion. When asked if reaffirming the original draft could expedite the process, he expressed uncertainty.