Thailand’s prime minister on Tuesday (3/10) announced the creation of a commission tasked with reviewing military-drafted constitutional amendments, but ruled out any changes to controversial parts related to the kingdom.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s new government took office in August after months of political wrangling, and promised constitutional reform ahead of May’s general election.
The current constitution was drafted in 2017 after the 2014 military coup, and places heavy emphasis on military officials and those who hold office rather than through an electoral process.
Srettha’s Pheu Thai Party promised to hold a referendum on constitutional changes, telling voters it was being used to extend the rule of the current junta.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and members of her cabinet pose for a group photo at the government building after the royal audience ceremony to take the oath of allegiance in Bangkok, Thailand, September 5, 2023. (Photo: REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha)
On Tuesday (3/10), Srettha appointed a 35-member commission to conduct a feasibility study for holding a referendum to amend the constitution.
“We have set a time period of three to four months, or at least before the new year, to complete the referendum,” said Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
The commission consists of government and opposition representatives, as well as academics, political activists and legal experts, he said at a press conference.
Phumtham said the process could take more than three years, but it was open to public discussion.
He said the cabinet would approve and convey the commission’s recommendations to the KPU before the referendum.
However, the new constitution will not change anything regarding the kingdom.
“We will not touch Chapter I and Chapter II including the Royal prerogative in other articles,” said Phumtham.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his immediate family are protected by some of the world’s strictest lese-majeste laws, violators of which can be punished by up to 15 years in prison.
Youth-led street protests in 2020 led to unprecedented calls for changes to the king’s powers and privileges.
The commission is expected to hold its first meeting next week. (ab/uh)