September 9, 2024: Government policies cannot be taken seriously nowadays, but the Paetongtarn administration’s pledge to make the charter more democratic and “as soon as possible” stands out for obvious reasons.
That was a key message to Parliament, hence the Thai public. It was a vow that would not make the Pheu Thai Party’s reluctant conservative allies too happy. Charter amendment has always been a key ingredient in every national turmoil, even during lesser politically-chaotic times.
According to a copy of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s policy statement, the pledge regarding the Constitution is put before anything else, even before the respect for the rule of law, reform of the bureaucracy (in which corruption is mentioned), and upgrading of state services for the Thai public.
Apart from the intriguing prioritisation, the wordings are curious. The statement suggests that the current Constitution is not fully democratic and needs to be made more democratic as soon as possible.
With Thailand’s political peace existing on a fragile balance, key players will be engaged in tough, continuous bargains. Proposed charter amendment will play a role in crucial horse-trading.
Daily updates of local and international events by Tulsathit Taptim
