People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut is turning up the heat, urging the government to catapult the 2017 constitution rewrite to the top of the to-do list. With vigor, he took to the parliamentary floor on Thursday, waving a flag of urgency for this critical issue. Captured in a poignant photo by Chanat Katanyu, Natthaphong’s impassioned plea was clear: Let’s make this happen, now.
On the opposition bench, there’s palpable frustration. The People’s Party is raising eyebrows at the government’s lukewarm approach, doubting if the promised constitutional overhauls will move beyond mere lip service. “The charter rewrite barely made a cameo in the government’s policy statement,” they pointed out with a mix of suspicion and exasperation.
Natthaphong didn’t mince words. Spotlighting the absence of urgency in Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s address, he challenged her to step away from the script. “I need to hear it from you, Prime Minister. Why is the charter rewrite not a priority?” he quizzed on the first day of the two-day parliamentary debate. It was clear he was looking for answers beyond the mundane political jargon.
The tension in the chamber was undeniable as Natthaphong laid out his demand: elevate the constitution rewrite to an urgent policy. He wasn’t just blowing hot air; he backed his call with four amendment bills crafted by his party. A sharp contrast to former prime minister Srettha Thavisin’s administration, which, almost a year ago, placed the charter rewrite among its top five urgent policies.
But this time, the policy statement delivered by Ms. Paetongtarn was notably vague. It mentioned, almost as an afterthought, the need to expedite drafting a “people’s version” of the constitution. Promises to make it as democratic as possible were made—but details were, shall we say, sparse.
Rising from the crowd, Phuthita Chaianuan, a People’s Party MP from Chiang Mai, wasn’t one to hold back. She likened the 2017 constitution to a “ticking political time bomb,” a dramatic metaphor that underscored the severity with which she viewed judicial overreach and military dominance. “The problem is staring us in the face, yet the government is eerily silent,” she bemoaned. Her rhetorical questions cut through the chamber’s tension like a hot knife through butter: “Why is this critical issue taking a backseat? When will you commit to starting and finishing this essential task?”
Her lament didn’t stop there. Promised public participation had all but evaporated from the new policy statement. Where was the community involvement in drafting the new constitution? Would a charter drafting assembly be elected by the voters? The suspicion that these assurances were nothing more than empty promises grew thicker by the minute.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn delivered her much-anticipated policy statement on Thursday morning, centering it around measures designed to uplift the financial status of the populace and bolster state income. However, with so much focus on economic matters, the glaring omission of the charter rewrite left opposition members and concerned citizens alike wondering if democratic reforms had taken an unfortunate backseat.
The People’s Party, with Natthaphong at its helm, isn’t retreating quietly. They’re determined to push the constitutional rewrite to the forefront, demanding that the government not only talk the talk but walk the walk. The stage is set, and the spotlight is on. Will the government rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.
Natthaphong is right! If democracy is truly the goal, rewriting the constitution should be the priority. The current one is too rigid!
Sure, but a complete overhaul isn’t the answer. Modifications can be made to address specific issues without a total rewrite.
Modifications won’t cut it. Too many special interests embedded in the current mess. Full rewrite or nothing!
Exactly, PoliticalJunkie. Small changes won’t solve deep-seated problems. We need a fresh start.
This is all just political theater. Nothing ever changes. The People’s Party is just as corrupt as those in power.
Cynical much? Some of us still believe in the power of activism and reform. We’re not all apathetic.
I’ve seen this cycle too many times. Save your naive optimism.
If our leaders didn’t stir up these issues, no one else would. At least the People’s Party is trying!
Phuthita’s metaphor about a ticking political time bomb nails it. The military’s influence is suffocating true democracy.
The military has played a stabilizing role, though. Sometimes you need that kind of power to maintain order.
Stabilizing? More like suppressive! We need fewer military interventions and more civilian governance.
Natthaphong is just being melodramatic. The constitution isn’t perfect, but it’s functional. Prioritize economic issues first.
Public participation has been lacking in the past policy statements. The government needs to involve citizens more in drafting the constitution.
How do you envision that happening effectively? Everyone has different opinions. It could be a chaotic process.
There are ways to create structured and inclusive processes. Look at other countries that have done it successfully.
Exactly, EcoWarrior. Public participation is crucial for a democratic constitution.
Shouldn’t we focus on transparency first? No point in a new constitution if the political process remains opaque.
Inflating financial status sounds good, but ignoring the constitution is like putting a band-aid on a broken bone.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s vague responses are so disappointing. We need clear commitments!
Agreed, but let’s not forget the complexity of governance. These things take time.
True, but some urgency and clarity are needed. We can’t wait forever.
Why is everyone so focused on democracy? Economic stability should be our main focus right now.
I think Natthaphong’s passion is commendable. He genuinely wants to make a difference.
Economic upliftment and constitutional reform should go hand in hand. You can’t ignore one for the other.
Exactly. A balanced approach is necessary. Too much focus on one aspect is not productive.
Isn’t it ironic that those shouting about democracy are the ones least inclined to listen to differing opinions?
True irony right there. Everyone needs to be more open-minded if we want real progress.
It’s not about not listening; it’s about fighting for fundamental rights and values.
Fair, but sometimes the approach can be more inclusive to genuinely understand each other.
Does anyone else think this is just a distraction from more pressing issues like health care and education?
Shoutout to Phuthita for keeping it real. We need more leaders like her, who aren’t afraid to call out judicial overreach!
Government inaction on the constitution is so frustrating! Enough with the empty promises already.
I feel your frustration, Marie. But let’s hope for the best and stay engaged.
I’m trying, but it’s tough to stay hopeful when nothing seems to change.
Before pushing for major changes, how about proving existing laws work? Rushing into reforms might lead to bigger problems.
True change comes from the top. If PM Paetongtarn doesn’t lead on this, we won’t get anywhere. Natthaphong’s frustration is valid.