A Step Towards Transparency: The People’s Party Presents Draft Amendment to Military Court Act

The People’s Party (PP) has recently submitted a draft amendment to the Military Court Act, with the primary objective of reducing centralized control under the Ministry of Defence and transferring jurisdiction over corruption-related offences involving military personnel to civilian courts. This move is aimed at addressing concerns regarding transparency and fairness in the administration of justice within the military court system.

The proposal was presented by PP list-MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, who emphasized that true justice demands an equal and transparent administration process. According to him, this fundamental requirement is central to the draft amendment’s objectives. The public has been questioning corruption-related and abuse of power cases involving military personnel, as well as the standard of the military court.

Key Features of the Draft Amendment

The bill seeks to address seven critical issues to ensure that trials in the military court are conducted with the same standards as civilian courts. Among these key features is the abolition of provincial-level military courts and transferring all cases to regional military courts, which would help save resources and budget due to a decline in the number of cases.

In addition to this significant change, the draft amendment proposes allowing victims to directly file complaints without going through military prosecutors. Furthermore, it suggests that examination of prosecutor witnesses in the absence of the defendant should not be permitted, as it is considered unfair.

The bill also stipulates that special cases, particularly those involving intellectual property and graft-related cases, should be tried in a special court, such as the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. This move aims to enhance transparency and fairness in the administration of justice.

Composition of Judging Panels

The draft amendment proposes changes to the composition of judging panels in serious cases that carry a prison term of three years and a fine of 60,000 baht. Currently, these panels consist of one military judge with a law degree and two generals. The proposed change would see the panel composed of two military judges with a law degree and one general.

Addressing Independence Concerns

Ekkarach Udomumnouy, a PP MP for Bangkok, emphasized that the independence of military courts has been questioned due to their structure. He stated that the proposed amendment targets transparency in military courts, urging Pheu Thai MPs to support the bill and promote fairness and accountability within the military justice system.

Implementation and Support

The draft amendment aims to promote a fairer and more transparent administration of justice within the military court system. By addressing concerns regarding centralized control and jurisdiction, the PP seeks to build trust between citizens and the military establishment. The proposed changes would undoubtedly enhance public confidence in the military courts’ ability to deliver impartial justice.

The People’s Party has demonstrated its commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in governance by presenting this draft amendment. This move highlights the party’s dedication to addressing long-standing concerns regarding the administration of justice within the military court system.

As the proposal moves forward, stakeholders must engage in a constructive dialogue to ensure that the changes benefit all parties involved and strengthen the trust between citizens and the military establishment. By working together, Thailand can establish a more just and equitable society for everyone.

Conclusion

The draft amendment presented by the People’s Party represents an important step towards increasing transparency and accountability within the military court system. By addressing concerns regarding centralized control and jurisdiction, the proposal aims to promote fairness and impartiality in the administration of justice. As stakeholders engage with this critical issue, it is essential that they prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and constructive collaboration to build a more just society for all citizens.

This significant development underscores the People’s Party’s commitment to promoting good governance and strengthening trust between citizens and the military establishment. By fostering an open discussion around these crucial issues, Thailand can work towards creating a fairer, more transparent system that upholds the principles of justice and accountability.