The Move Forward Party (MFP) yesterday submitted three charter amendment bills aiming to reduce the influence of military regimes, curb future coups, and abolish the military-backed 20-year national strategy. MFP list-MP Parit Wacharasindhu stated that, although the Pheu Thai-led government has committed to drafting a new constitution, the endeavor could take up to two years. Therefore, the MFP believes it is crucial to amend specific sections concurrently to address pressing issues.
According to Mr. Parit, the three bills are designed to alleviate the impacts of the 2014 coup, and political parties are anticipated to support them. The bills will first be presented to the Lower House for deliberation before being forwarded to the Senate.
Among the proposed bills, one targets the abolition of Section 279 of the charter, which legitimizes all orders and announcements made by the now-defunct National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) and its leader. If this section is revoked, individuals affected by the NCPO’s actions will have the right to legally challenge the junta’s orders, especially those that infringed upon civil rights and liberties.
Mr. Parit mentioned that the MFP is also advocating for a new law to annul NCPO orders that are deemed not to benefit the public. Although the party proposed this bill in July last year, it was classified as finance-related, requiring the prime minister’s approval to advance.
The second bill aims to counter and prevent future coup attempts. It will empower state officials to disobey orders from individuals attempting to seize power and forbid courts from recognizing coups as legitimate methods of establishing government authority. Moreover, it will ban amnesty for coup perpetrators while permitting citizens to file treason charges against them.
“The party will push for anti-coup measures to be included in the constitution. We will also advocate for related laws, such as military reforms, and work to increase public awareness that political conflicts should be resolved through established political mechanisms,” Mr. Parit emphasized.
The final bill proposes the abolition of the 20-year national strategy and the national reform plan specified under Sections 16 and 65 of the constitution. While the MFP acknowledges the necessity for a long-term development strategy, Mr. Parit argued that the current plan was developed during the military regime and lacked adequate public input.
The MFP is finally doing something right! Abolishing the military-backed strategy is essential for real democracy.
But can they really implement these changes with the current power dynamics? The military won’t give up easily.
Of course it won’t be easy, but it’s a step in the right direction. We need politicians who are willing to fight for it.
Idealistic much? The real battle is in keeping these amendments from getting watered down or endlessly delayed.
True, but public pressure can make a difference. The people need to show their support.
The idea of allowing citizens to file treason charges against coup perpetrators sounds great on paper, but it’s totally impractical.
Impractical? It’s a necessary deterrent! We can’t let military leaders think they’re above the law.
Tom, while I agree in principle, the judiciary is already compromised. Who’s going to enforce these treason charges?
It’s not perfect, but it’s a start. We need these legal frameworks in place to build on over time.
Perhaps you’re right. Still, implementing these changes will be a huge uphill battle.
Why are we wasting time and resources on these amendments? Focus on the economy instead.
Strong governance is foundational to a good economy. We need to fix the political system first.
Brian, these amendments could ensure a more stable political environment, which is crucial for economic growth.
Section 279 needs to go. It’s outrageous how it protects the military’s past crimes.
Totally agree! It’s like giving them a free pass for everything they did during the coup.
Exactly. Justice should be served for those affected by the junta’s actions.
It’s about time someone took a stand against these outdated and oppressive laws.
Empowering state officials to disobey coup orders is unrealistic. They’re bound by a chain of command.
True, but the amendment could help to create a culture where illegal orders are questioned.
Theory and practice are miles apart. Such an amendment could cause more chaos in the military.
Abolishing the 20-year national strategy makes sense. Development plans should be people-driven, not military-driven.
Agreed! Public input is crucial for a sustainable and fair development plan.
This is all just MFP grandstanding. These amendments won’t pass the Senate, let alone make any real change.
They might not pass right away, but it’s important to keep the conversation going. Change often starts small.
Call me skeptical, but I’ve seen too many ‘big conversations’ lead to nothing.
Skepticism is healthy, but we should still support efforts to push for better governance.
Why do we even have a military influence in politics in the first place? It’s 2023!
Historical reasons mostly, but it’s definitely time we moved past that.
The military should focus on defense, not running the country.
Revoking orders made by the NCPO sounds great, but will it truly help those who suffered?
It’s at least a step towards justice for those affected.
True, but real justice would need a lot more than just revoking orders.
It’s about creating a fair and just legal system in the long run.
A military coup is never acceptable in a democracy. The MFP’s focus on anti-coup measures is commendable.
People underestimate the importance of these amendments. They’re about ensuring long-term stability.
We need more clarity on how they plan to implement these changes. Just proposing amendments isn’t enough.
Military reforms are crucial. The MFP’s push for altering the military’s role in politics is overdue.
Not just overdue, but also necessary for true democratic progress.
Can we trust the MFP to follow through with these amendments? Politicians often make big promises.
The 20-year national strategy is outdated. It mostly benefits the elite, not the common people.
It was never meant to be a democratic initiative. The public’s input is crucial for all development plans.