Bangkok: Bhumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has extended the People’s Party’s proposal to conduct a referendum on temporarily adopting the 2007 Constitution as a means to reset the political climate in Thailand. This proposal aims to allow citizens to make decisions on pivotal political issues. Coordination meetings with the People’s Party have already taken place, but formal, confidential discussions are necessary to finalize an agreement.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham, who is also the acting Prime Minister, emphasized the People’s Party’s conditions for supporting government formation. These include a referendum to amend the entire constitution, the formation of an elected Constituent Assembly (CSA), and the dissolution of Parliament within four months following the new government’s policy statement to Parliament. He highlighted that the 2017 Constitution has distorted Thai politics, necessitating a complete system reset. The proposed referendum would not only address constitutional amendments but also consider the interim use of the 2007 Constitution, which is widely regarded as more democratic.

Mr. Phumtham also addressed concerns regarding the Thai-Cambodian border issue, suggesting that it be put to a referendum to resolve national conflicts and maintain international stability. He reiterated that critical contested issues should be decided by the public through referendums.

In discussions with the Prachachon Party, Mr. Phumtham noted that a coordination committee has been established, with preliminary talks already in progress. He expressed optimism about the process, citing minimal ideological differences between the Prachachon Party and the Pheu Thai Party.