The new Senate has great potential to illuminate the path toward a brighter future for Thai politics, at least that’s what Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit fervently believes. Despite rumors swirling around that a significant number of new senators are aligned with political parties, particularly the Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party, Ms. Angkhana stands firm in her assertion that senators have the capability to remain untethered from political meddling, acting in favor of the people’s interests.
In an exclusive chat with the Bangkok Post, Ms. Angkhana candidly acknowledged that she will likely find herself in the minority within the upper chamber, owing to the apparent political affiliations of many senators. “I will work to the best of my abilities. But I expect to be in the minority… Several senators are believed to belong to the same group [with political affiliations]. We have to admit the reality of the Senate election outcome,” she remarked.
Yingcheep Atchanont, manager of the Internet Dialogue on Law Reform, pointed out that Ms. Angkhana, a former member of the National Human Rights Commission, won her seat representing a civil society group. Nevertheless, she garnered fewer votes compared to some lesser-known candidates from Buri Ram, a BJT political bastion.
A Sign of Hope
However, undeterred by these challenges, Ms. Angkhana remains optimistic about the new Senate’s potential to inspire hope and bring about transformative changes. “The new Senate gives more hope than the previous chamber. I know several independent senators, and they expect to bring about change,” she mentioned while firmly cautioning against any political intervention in the Senate’s affairs.
“Political parties and anyone who exerts influence from outside should stop interfering. Senators should be allowed to express their opinions freely,” she urged. Emphasizing that senators have a duty to remain attuned to the concerns of the populace, irrespective of their political leanings, she added, “When it comes to important issues that affect people, senators are duty-bound to listen to people regardless of their political affiliations.”
Ms. Angkhana stressed that although several new senators might have political ties and were previously MPs or local politicians, they must now prove their mettle and demonstrate independence in their new roles. “When key bills are tabled to the Senate for consideration, senators must carry out their duty properly without any pressure from external influence. Vote on the passage of new legislation will be an indicator [of whether the new senators are independent],” she remarked.
Role in Constitution Amendment
Touching upon the Senate’s role in amending the constitution, Ms. Angkhana recalled how senators often disregarded charter amendment proposals initiated by the public in the past. She vowed to champion such proposals, ensuring they receive support from at least some senators, including herself.
According to the constitution, any proposal to amend the charter necessitates backing from one-third of the new 200 senators or at least 67 senators. Without this support, charter amendment proposals cannot move forward.
When asked about a proposal to draft a new constitution without modifying Chapters 1 and 2, which pertain to the monarchy, Ms. Angkhana responded that proposals for amending any charter provisions should be open for discussion. Chapter 1 defines Thailand as a single, indivisible kingdom with a democratic regime and the King as head of state, whereas Chapter 2 covers sections regarding royal prerogatives.
Recalling her tenure on the 2007 constitution drafting committee, she emphasized that committee members were free to deliberate on every charter change proposal. “But in the end, any proposed charter amendment is decided by a majority vote in parliament. We have to respect the outcome while [the opinions of] those in the minority should also be acknowledged,” she stressed.
Ms. Angkhana also supports the idea of appointing a civilian as the new Senate Speaker, suggesting that it would bring flexibility and open-mindedness to the role. She proposed that a woman should be considered for the Senate Speaker or a deputy Senate Speaker position. “A civilian Senate Speaker should be flexible and open-minded. A Senate Speaker from a military background may be used to giving instructions. The Senate is made up of people from diverse groups. They are not here to take orders,” she argued.
The caretaker senators are set to stand down following the Election Commission’s endorsement of all 200 senators-elect and their substitutes on July 10, with the previous incumbents’ term having formally ended two months earlier. Unlike their predecessors, the new senators will not have the power to co-elect a new prime minister. However, they will continue to be involved in passing legislation, amending laws, and the constitution.
Additionally, the new senators will appoint members of independent organizations to committees and continually oversee the performance of the executive branch of government, ensuring there’s a system of checks and balances in place.
Absolutely thrilled to see someone like Angkhana Neelapaijit in the Senate. We need more independent voices!
Agreed, Joe. But how realistic is it for her to expect impartiality when the odds are stacked against her?
I’m skeptical too, but every movement has to start somewhere. At least she’s trying to create change.
True, Susan. Change often starts with a single voice, but will it be enough to counter political ties?
Independence in politics is a pipe dream. Everyone has an agenda.
All politicians end up getting corrupted, Angkhana is no different. Just wait and watch.
Cynical much? Some people actually fight for what’s right.
Realistic, not cynical. Idealism doesn’t win battles in politics.
Idealism might not win battles, but pragmatism without morals loses wars.
I think both sides have valid points. Balance is key for any senator.
The true test will be how senators vote on key bills. Actions speak louder than words.
Absolutely, Larry. Let’s hope they actually vote based on conscience and not party lines.
Ted, hoping is one thing, but history shows otherwise. It’s hard to break free from party influence.
The structure of the Senate might necessitate political maneuvering. It’s the system that’s flawed, not always the individuals.
A civilian Senate Speaker sounds like a great idea! We need more diverse perspectives in leadership.
Good in theory, Samantha. But how will that change anything?
It could bring different viewpoints and less rigid decision-making. Isn’t that progress?
We’ll see. Don’t get your hopes too high.
Bringing a woman as Senate Speaker would definitely be a step forward. More representation matters.
Thailand needs constitutional amendments to make any real change. Senates come and go, but the structure remains unchanged.
Totally agree. The constitution is the real battleground. Everything else is just temporary solutions.
Kelly, exactly. Angkhana’s stance on charter amendments is crucial. It might actually lead to long-term change.
Wow, proposing to amend constitution without touching monarchy chapters is daring. Most wouldn’t touch it!
I’m confused, why is there so much focus on political independence? Isn’t collaboration key in politics?
Collaboration is important, but not when it means compromising on key values just to ‘fit in’.
Exactly, Joe. Collaboration should not equate to pandering to political parties and losing sight of what truly matters.
Senator Angkhana has her work cut out for her, facing political ties in the Senate.
True, Michelle. But if she manages to stay firm, she could pave the way for future independent senators.
Let’s hope she does, Ben. We need more leaders like her.
Why do we even bother with these Senates if their power is so limited? Seems like a waste of time.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Change is a marathon, not a sprint.
Well put, historian22. Patience and consistent effort are necessary for meaningful reform.
Let’s give Angkhana the benefit of the doubt for now. Everyone deserves a fair chance.
Tired of politicians talking about change but never delivering. Angkhana might just be another story in the making.
I believe in optimistic senators like Angkhana. Hope she’s truly committed to standing alone against political parties.
Same here, KTW. She has an uphill battle but at least she shows true conviction.
Conviction means nothing without results, Joe.