Junta chief Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha and his cabinet today approved an amendment to allow the public to vote on the kingdom’s latest in a long line of constitutions.
Chairing today’s session, Prayuth said holding a referendum on the draft charter would delay his roadmap for returning Thailand to democracy, according to The Nation.
Prayuth seized power in a coup nearly one year ago, and soon indicated elections would be held in early 2016. It was not immediately clear how long a poll would delay that plan.
Leaders from both major political parties have warned the charter is undemocratic and weakens direct representation by the electorate.
The junta-appointed legislature has signaled its readiness to consider an amendment enabling a vote be held on implementing Thailand’s 20th Constitution.
It would have two weeks to enact the amendment after receiving notice from the cabinet, according to state media.
Legislature Vice President Surachai Liengboonlertchai said the junta may have to relax its ban on public gatherings to allow the public to discuss the proposed constitution.
File photo: Thai PBS
