Bangkok is abuzz with anticipation as the new Senate gears up for its inaugural meeting on July 23. With its key role in charter amendments and the political chess game among coalition parties in the government, all eyes are locked on this power-packed assembly. Political analysts are already murmuring about the slippery power dynamics, particularly spotlighting the Bhumjaithai Party’s sway over the proceedings.
Whispers in the corridors suggest that the new Upper House is brimming with senators who wield blue banners—Bhumjaithai’s colors. The newly appointed Senate Speaker and a deputy are reportedly linked to this very party, adding a swirl of intrigue to the political landscape.
The “blue” bloc, as it’s cheekily referred to, is rumored to be the mightiest of the three factions and boasts a robust roster of at least 150 senators. Armed with this influence, Bhumjaithai holds the reins in boosting its political leverage and extending its clout.
While their predecessors flexed the power to join MPs in electing a prime minister, the current crop of senators won’t have that luxury. Yet, they aren’t entirely toothless. They still play pivotal roles such as approving legislation, amending laws and the constitution, endorsing key appointments, and keeping the executive branch in check.
To amend the constitution, any proposal needs one-third of the Senate’s support—at least 67 senators. Without this backing, charter amendments don’t stand a chance to proceed.
Hurdles to Charter Change
Thanaporn Sriyakul, director of the Political and Public Policy Analysis Institute, shed some light on the rocky road ahead for any charter amendment proposals. The Move Forward Party’s thrust to amend integral Chapters 1 and 2 and to include lese majeste on the list of offenses for a political amnesty bill is bound to face staunch resistance in the new Senate.
He emphasized that the bulk of senators are agreeable to charter amendments, provided Chapters 1 and 2 remain untouched. This stance mirrors Bhumjaithai’s viewpoint.
Chapter 1 cements Thailand as a single, indivisible kingdom under a democratic regime with the King as the head of state. Chapter 2 covers the royal prerogatives. Bhumjaithai’s leader, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has firmly stated that Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste clause, must remain untampered.
Greater Leverage
Mr. Thanaporn pointed out that the blue camp is already ramping up Bhumjaithai’s political leverage. This is evident in its squabble with the ruling Pheu Thai Party over the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic.
The tug-of-war between Bhumjaithai, which champions cannabis decriminalization, and Pheu Thai, which aims to reverse that policy, is heating up. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reportedly put a cannabis control bill on parliament’s table, hinting at leaving the plant off the narcotics list—a gesture seemingly intended to placate Bhumjaithai.
This move could stave off Bhumjaithai’s threat to boycott any attempt to revert cannabis to a narcotic. Observers speculate that this is a tactic to maintain harmony within the coalition government.
Olarn Thinbangtieo, a political science lecturer at Burapha University, noted that the blue camp isn’t just senators tied to Bhumjaithai but also includes those connected to the old power clique.
“This clique comprises former government officials, retired military officers, and local politicians aligned with Bhumjaithai,” Mr. Olarn observed.
“Their main goal is to block any laws that might undermine their power and privileges. With the Senate’s backing, Bhumjaithai’s political influence is on the rise,” he added.
Mr. Olarn also indicated that any attempt to amend charter provisions related to the monarchy will face fierce opposition from senators affiliated with conservative groups.
“Given the Senate’s dominance by Bhumjaithai-tied senators, sweeping changes to the constitution are unlikely. Any amendments will likely be tackled section by section,” he explained.
Moreover, Bhumjaithai-aligned senators are expected to nab significant positions on the Senate’s key standing committees, which handle ministry-related matters controlled by Bhumjaithai.
Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok’s Institute, emphasized that blue camp senators will wield considerable influence in charter amendments and the selection of members for independent agencies.
“Anyone wishing to achieve their goals must negotiate with these senators,” Mr. Stithorn remarked. “Certain charter provisions can only be modified with their consent.” He added that while the previous batch of junta-appointed senators was swayed by ‘the uncles,’ the new Senate finds itself under the blue umbrella with ties to the same influential figures.
In this ongoing political drama, “the uncles” refer to former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Gen. Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party. The Senate’s evolving dynamics promise a gripping show, rich with power plays and strategic maneuvers.
Bhumjaithai’s growing influence is just a blatant power grab. This can’t be good for democracy.
Isn’t this how politics works everywhere though? Power struggles are part of the game.
Sure, but it feels like we’re moving backwards. There’s too much focus on personalities rather than policies.
Yeah, and it’s disturbing how amendments could be blocked just to keep certain people in power.
Constitutional amendments are needed, but meddling with Chapter 1 and 2 is just asking for trouble.
Why’s that? Isn’t it time to modernize our laws and adapt to current realities?
Chapter 1 and 2 are the foundation. Without them, our country’s identity could erode.
Change is necessary, but yes, we need to tread carefully with foundational aspects.
I support Bhumjaithai’s stance on cannabis. It’s a step towards more progressive policies.
Cannabis might be progressive, but it’s a distraction from more pressing issues.
Making it a narcotic again would be a step back, I agree with you.
It’s a shame Senators are being used as tools by political parties rather than serving the people.
Politicians have always played these games. The system is flawed.
Maybe we need a different approach to selecting senators?
The Senate blocking any attempt at serious reforms just shows how stagnant our politics have become.
Bhumjaithai’s influence with old power cliques means they’ll protect their own interests at the expense of necessary change.
The back-and-forth on cannabis control is just an attempt to placate party supporters. It’s a circus.
If Bhumjaithai is pulling the strings on significant committees, nothing meaningful will ever change.
You can’t expect much from a system where personal leverage is more important than public service.
The Senate’s power in approving legislation means we’ll see more of the same old policies.
True. Innovation is the last thing on their minds.
Playing political chess will just keep us in a loop. Break the cycle, we need new blood in politics!
Agreed. It’s time for new perspectives.
I wonder if the new Senate will actually differ from the previous one that was under heavy influence from ‘the uncles’.
Anutin’s stance on Section 112 shows he’s unwilling to lose power. We need bold leaders, not manipulators.
The Senate’s role should be more proactive rather than being a rubber stamp for the dominant party.
If Bhumjaithai senators dominate, won’t this lead to a myopic legislative environment?
Can’t believe people are still surprised by political power plays. This is how it’s been for ages.
True, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive for better governance.
Blocking reforms that touch Chapter 1 and 2 just signals that nothing will fundamentally change in our politics.
It’s frustrating how resistant to change the Senate can be. Limiting discussions stifles democracy.
The focus needs to shift from protecting elite interests to thinking about the betterment of all citizens.
Without the ability to select the PM, the Senate’s power is less overt but still dangerous.
Who else thinks the Senate’s not transparent enough? We need more accountability.
Totally agree, secretive power moves are eroding trust in our political system.