Senate Committee Unveils Constitutional Amendment Model Aimed at Promoting Diversity and Public Participation
The Senate committee on political development has unveiled a constitutional amendment model, dubbed "Two Prongs, Two Steps," aimed at ensuring both diversity and broad public participation in the drafting of a new constitution. The proposed model has been met with mixed reactions from various stakeholders, including some senators who remain concerned about certain aspects of the proposal.
Norasate Prachyakorn, a senator and chairman of the committee on political development, public participation, human rights and consumer protection, provided insights into the thinking behind the "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model. According to Senator Norasate, the panel is studying drafts from various parties, including those submitted by different senators.
The Constitutional Court recently ruled that voters cannot directly elect a constitutional drafting assembly (CDA). Furthermore, on September 10, it also ruled that the drafting of a new constitution must be subject to three referendums, with the option to combine the first and second into one. While the committee respects the court’s decision, Senator Norasate emphasized that Section 3 of the constitution states that sovereignty belongs to the people, and parliament should uphold this principle on their behalf.
Senator Norasate cited findings from hearings conducted recently across several regions, highlighting the desire among participants for direct election of CDA members. He stated that most participants want representatives from each province to be part of the constitutional drafting process. Under the proposed model, 400 CDA members would be selected: 200 from the provinces based on population — capped at five per province — and another 200 from a national list of experts chosen by parliament with safeguards against vote monopolisation.
Of these, 200 elected members would serve as constitution drafters and public hearing facilitators, while the remaining 200 would join committees overseeing public consultations and publicity efforts. This design, Senator Norasate explained, ensures all 400 representatives contribute to the new charter while blending direct public choice with parliamentary input.
However, the proposal remains a "framework" for debate in parliament and public forums, according to Senator Norasate. Outreach activities are planned into next year as part of an effort to engage more stakeholders and gather further feedback on the proposed model. Even within the committee itself, some senators remain concerned, particularly about Chapters 1 and 2 of the constitution.
Senator Norasate acknowledged these concerns, stating that the panel would continue to clarify the rationale behind the proposal to ease these worries. Chapter 1 contains sections defining Thailand as a single, indivisible kingdom with a democratic regime and the King as head of state. Chapter 2 outlines royal prerogatives.
The proposed model has received support from some political parties, including the People’s Party and Pheu Thai, which both favor direct public election of CDA members. As the debate around the "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model continues, it remains to be seen how this proposal will shape the future of Thailand’s constitutional development.
Key Components of the Constitutional Amendment Model
The proposed "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model has several key components that aim to promote diversity and public participation in the drafting of a new constitution. Some of these key components include:
- Direct election of CDA members
- Representation from each province
- A national list of experts chosen by parliament with safeguards against vote monopolisation
- 200 elected members serving as constitution drafters and public hearing facilitators
- 200 representatives joining committees overseeing public consultations and publicity efforts
Challenges and Concerns Surrounding the Proposed Model
Despite its potential benefits, the proposed model has faced challenges and concerns from various stakeholders. Some senators remain concerned about Chapters 1 and 2 of the constitution, highlighting the need for further clarification on these aspects.
The Constitutional Court’s recent rulings have also created uncertainty around the drafting process. The court’s decision that voters cannot directly elect a CDA has raised questions about the role of parliament in this process. Furthermore, the requirement for three referendums with the option to combine the first and second into one adds another layer of complexity.
Future Directions for the Constitutional Amendment Model
The proposed model is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen how it will evolve over time. Outreach activities are planned into next year as part of an effort to engage more stakeholders and gather further feedback on the proposed model.
As the debate around the "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model continues, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in open and constructive dialogue. By doing so, they can work together to address concerns and create a constitution that truly represents the will of the people.
Conclusion
The Senate committee on political development has unveiled a constitutional amendment model aimed at promoting diversity and public participation in the drafting of a new constitution. The proposed "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model has several key components, including direct election of CDA members, representation from each province, and a national list of experts chosen by parliament with safeguards against vote monopolisation.
While the proposal remains a "framework" for debate in parliament and public forums, outreach activities are planned into next year as part of an effort to engage more stakeholders and gather further feedback on the proposed model. As the debate around the "Two Prongs, Two Steps" model continues, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in open and constructive dialogue.
By doing so, they can work together to address concerns and create a constitution that truly represents the will of the people. The future of Thailand’s constitutional development hangs in the balance, and the proposed model offers a promising starting point for this process.