In a political saga unfolding this week, Senator Premsak Piayura is gearing up to light a fire under Thailand’s parliamentary scene. The senator is preparing to table a motion aimed at invoking a Constitutional Court’s ruling to determine if parliament wields the power to amend Section 256 of the legal code. A move like this could open the doors to assembling a charter-drafting assembly (CDA).
Interestingly, whispers on the grapevine suggest that Senator Premsak already has rallying support from 40 of his fellow senators, a requisite number under the law’s constraints. This motion isn’t just blowing in the wind; it’s primed to be slotted into the hands of Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha this Thursday. Why Thursday? That’s when the parliamentary chatter about charter amendment bills is slated to kick off, hitting the ground running with proposals that target, among others, the very Section 256 in question.
But, like a magician pulling a disappearing act, Dr. Premsak was a no-show at his own anticipated press engagement, leaving the media holding their collective breath. For those trying to track him down, it was akin to chasing the wind—Dr. Premsak remained elusive, wrapping himself in a veil of media silence confirmed by the Senate Secretariat.
The crux of this motion centers on whether the bills that seek to revolutionize the charter top-to-bottom can begin their journey without the foundation of a pre-ordained referendum—a nod to established protocol by a Constitutional Court ruling back in 2021. Walk through this political minefield without the public’s nod, and boom—you’re stepping into a realm of unconstitutionality.
Meanwhile, Senator Pisit Apiwattanawong is reportedly turning a blind eye, or perhaps playing his cards close to the chest. On Wednesday, he spilled the beans to the media, telling them senators haven’t huddled over the charter amendments and that Senate whips don’t have the golden ticket to dictate the senators’ choices. Echoing the absence of a plot in a crime novel, Mr. Pisit shrugged off any knowledge of Dr. Premsak’s motion either hitting the Senate floor or even existing.
The Senate is on the clock with a slender six hours dedicated to chew over the charter amendment debate with as yet mysterious casts of participants.
Enter Pheu Thai deputy leader Chousak Sirinil stage left, with ominous clouds of concern overshadowing his take on a possible walkout—a metaphorical doomsday device to pause the bill’s quest to change Section 256. “I’m worried that the meeting could stumble into a constitutional quagmire, sparking some members to stage a dramatic exit or push for another ruling before the debate takes flight,” he mused.
Chousak, moonlighting as Prime Minister’s office minister, highlights the tightrope that is the parliamentary process, warning that stalling could lead the court to dismiss the appeal for lack of active parliamentary engagement.
As the parliamentary gears churn, Mr. Wan is standing his ground. Just this Monday, he was adamant that the bills calling for sweeping constitutional changes would not be tossed aside—they’re marching onward, come what may.
So, grab your popcorn because the stage is set, and the political drama unfolding in the halls of Thailand’s parliament promises more twists and turns than a thrilling novella.
This move by Senator Premsak is a surefire way to stir the pot! I can’t recall the last time the parliament was this divided over a charter amendment.
Agreed! These amendments could lead to significant changes, but isn’t it about time we see some reform?
But reform without public backing could backfire. Remember what happened in 2021?
Isn’t Dr. Premsak’s media silence quite unprofessional? Senators have a duty to communicate with the public!
Totally! How are we supposed to trust someone who isn’t transparent? It’s a critical time for openness.
Maybe he’s just careful about adding fuel to the fire. These matters require strategic quietness sometimes.
Or maybe he doesn’t have anything solid yet and doesn’t want to cause a panic with half-baked information.
This is a classic case of parliamentary politics—chaos and calculated moves. I believe Premsak’s motion could unveil the need for a more adaptable constitution.
I see your point, but do we really need to gamble with the constitutional framework when the public isn’t fully involved yet?
Pisit’s comments are just political sidestepping. If senators aren’t up to speed, they’re not doing their job! Everyone should be aware.
Sounds like a game of ‘who’s in charge here?’ It’s a shame when elected officials act clueless.
Chousak is right to be concerned! A walkout or additional ruling could leave us in a constitutional mess like never before.
Exactly, Vicky! It could trigger political instability that harms Thailand in the long run.
Well, a walkout could just be political dramatics. Let’s not overreact unless there’s an actual move in that direction.
Why Thursday for the motion? Is that just a tradition, or is there a strategic reason?
The fact that some members might walk out just shows how divisive this issue is. It might be better to take more time discussing it before rushing any decisions.
Walking out is typical politicking. They want to send a message but not have to actually vote against anything.
I disagree, Zach. It’s about taking a stand for what they believe the public wants or doesn’t, even if it seems excessive.
True, but I’d rather see them stay and debate instead of theatrics. That’s what they’re there for.
Following up on Lisa’s note—over time, a flexible constitution can adapt to changes more fluidly, which is beneficial in a fast-evolving world.
Wan is standing his ground, and that’s commendable. But couldn’t this stubbornness lead to a standstill? Cooperation is key!
These political games are exhausting. Why can’t they just focus on making life better for everyone and agree on things for once?
It’s not that simple, Tommy. Politics involves balancing numerous interests, and it’s not easy pleasing everyone.
I wonder who the mysterious ‘cast of participants’ will be in the debate. It’s all so cloak-and-dagger!
It’s ironic how Premsak is pushing a motion yet isn’t available for comment. Seems like politics always comes with a side of drama!
Right? Theatrics over genuine leadership, it seems. But is there more going on behind closed doors?
Premsak likely knows what he’s doing by staying under the radar. It’s all about timing and causing the right splash at the right moment.
Honestly, I can’t help but think all this fuss over a meeting is indicative of a bigger underlying issue—maybe the constitution needs a new and more efficient process altogether.