Democracy in Thailand ready for substantial reform

BANGKOK, 17 June 2010 (NNT) – Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Thursday presided over the first committee meeting for a review of the constitution.

Speaking after attending the meeting, the committee chairperson Sombat Thamrongtanyawong said a consent was reached for the committee to probe six-point proposals made by a reconciliation committee independently. They are asked to pay attention to public opinions in a bid to improve democracy in Thailand.

A working timeframe has been adopted at the meeting, while the conclusion will be carried out by the end of October and later be forwarded to the government for further decisions.

The committee has been divided into three subcommittees, namely a subcommittee to study methods of constitutional amendment led by Sakda Tanitkul , a subcommittee to analyze constitutional framework for political reform led by Sawang Boonchalermwipas and a subcommittee to create public cooperation to strengthen democracy in Thailand led by Chaiya Yimwilai.

The three subcommittees are tasked to complete their work plans by the end of June.