Bangkok: The House of Representatives has upheld the original principle of the ‘Referendum Act’ draft, deciding to send it to the government for further action. This move is seen as a crucial step in unlocking the referendum voting rules to a single-level majority, which is essential for advancing amendments to the constitution. However, the Bhumjaithai Party has expressed reservations about the current form of the law, indicating uncertainties remain.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaturon Chaisang, an MP for the Pheu Thai Party and proposer of the referendum bill, expressed gratitude to the Government Coalition Coordination Committee and the chairman for prioritizing the agenda. He highlighted the urgency, given the Constitutional Court’s pending decision on the number of referendums required for the draft constitution. The absence of a new referendum law could hinder constitutional amendments due to the existing law’s two-tier majority rule.

The drive to amend the constitution for greater democracy is a policy endorsed by nearly all political parties. Proposals to amend the Referendum Act from the cabinet, Pheu Thai Party, Bhumjaithai Party, and Prachachon Party seek to shift to a single-level majority vote. Although not simplifying the referendum process, this change is intended to enhance its legitimacy.

Without clear guidance from the Constitutional Court on the majority vote levels required, reliance on existing constitutional rules is necessary. The House’s unanimous approval of the referendum bill in previous readings suggests progress, but the Senate’s reversal in favor of two-tier majority votes poses challenges. This situation underscores the difficulty in using referendums as mechanisms for constitutional amendment and national development.

Following a 180-day veto period, the House confirmed the bill it had previously approved. The aim is to unlock the referendum rules, facilitating constitutional amendments through a single-level majority.

Ms. Nan Bunthida Somchai, representing the Bhumjaithai Party, reiterated the party’s concerns. While supportive of referendums, the party questions the sufficiency of a one-tier vote without considering the number of participating voters. The Bhumjaithai Party advocates for a majority vote reflecting at least half of eligible voters to ensure the validity of referendums, especially on critical national issues.

The party’s position remains cautious, advocating for a more robust filtering mechanism to validate majority votes. The draft law’s confirmation by parliament, with 375 votes in favor, 80 abstentions, and 1 vote against, signifies its approval and subsequent forwarding to the government for further action.