Bangkok: “Prit” is set to request a special session to discuss the second reading of the constitutional amendment. Prita has expressed confidence that following the enactment of the Referendum Act, the drafting of the constitution and the dissolution of Parliament will proceed as per the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). He is expediting discussions to conclude the Constituent Assembly model, ensuring swift acceptance and preparing to invite the Election Commission for further discourse.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Panusaya Wacharasindhu, a Prachachon Party MP and deputy party spokesman, addressed the implications of the 2025 Referendum Act. He emphasized that the Act reassures all parties that the process, including the dissolution of Parliament by January 31, 2026, will align with the established framework, leading to a referendum alongside a general election. The referendum will pose two questions as mandated by the Constitutional Court, with Parliament needing to approve the draft amendment by the end of December.
The committee responsible for the draft amendments to Sections 156 and 256 of the Constitution is working to resolve differing opinions and reach a consensus. For the amendment to pass in the third reading, a majority parliamentary vote, including 20% of the opposition and one-third Senate approval, is required. Mr. Panusaya expressed personal concerns about conducting a referendum simultaneously with early elections, noting that the Referendum Act lacks clarity on this matter.
Mr. Panusaya further commented on the need for a draft that garners consensus from all parties. He highlighted the importance of facilitating citizens’ voting and mentioned his role in inviting the Election Commission to discuss the referendum’s logistics. The focus is on ensuring that citizens can exercise their voting rights in advance, as the Referendum Act does not explicitly mention advance voting within the Kingdom.
Mr. Pris added that the committee will discuss the content of the model Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA) this week. The committee aims to address differing principles in the two drafts adopted by Parliament and ensure compliance with court rulings. The goal is to promote public participation in drafting the new constitution and prevent monopolization by any single party.
When questioned about a former senator’s petition to the Ombudsman regarding the constitutional amendment process, Mr. Panusaya asserted that the current actions do not violate the Constitutional Court’s ruling. He emphasized that all parliamentary parties agree they are acting within the legal framework, though he acknowledged the public’s right to use legal mechanisms.
Regarding the referendum timeline, Mr. Panusaya confirmed the government’s commitment to the established framework, with Parliament’s dissolution set for January 31 and elections alongside the referendum in late March. Uncertainties remain over the referendum questions and how they will address MOU 43 and 44. Discussions will continue on ensuring public access to comprehensive information for informed decision-making.
Mr. Panusaya also highlighted potential contingency plans if a referendum results in the cancellation of the MOU, questioning whether bilateral mechanisms would support such an outcome. He clarified that the referendum on constitutional amendments will have two questions, with the second following Parliament’s approval of the draft amendment. Discussions on the first referendum will involve a Cabinet or House resolution, which will not affect the overall timeline.
When asked about the political climate for next year’s election, Mr. Pris expressed confidence in the government’s plans to proceed within the framework and maintain the country’s administration within the established timeframe. He noted that there have been no indications of halting efforts and believes the process can continue as planned.