The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) and the cabinet face growing pressure to clarify their stance on a proposed referendum on the draft charter when they meet Tuesday to discuss the issue.
Election Commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn on Monday displayed the type of ballot voters will see under the new constitution's mixed-member proportional (MMP) representation system with an open list. Pressure grew on the military regime to state by Tuesday whether they support or oppose a referendum to approve the charter. (Photo by Thiti Wannamontha)
National Reform Council (NRC) president Thienchay Kiranandana has submitted a petition to Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, in his capacity as the prime minister and chief of the NCPO, to support the referendum.
The NRC move follows the Constitution Drafting Committee's (CDC) endorsement of a referendum, and is expected to pressure Gen Prayut into adopting a position Tuesday.
The CDC and the NRC are two out of the "five rivers" which have publicly voiced support for a national referendum. The National Legislative Assembly (NLA) has refrained from voicing any opinion.
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A source close to the military council said Monday the proposed referendum on a new charter is likely to win approval from the NCPO and the cabinet as calls for a public vote on the document are intensifying.
According to the source, Prime Minister Prayut is not keen on a referendum because it will delay planned elections for at least three months and may trigger a backlash over prolonged military rule.
"The NCPO is concerned about criticism that the referendum is being used as an excuse to stay in power longer," said the source.
If a referendum is held, the NCPO will have to ensure the process does not take longer than necessary because it wants a general election to take place next year, the source said.
The source said there is speculation if the NCPO goes for a referendum, it is because the NCPO in part believes an early election is unlikely to bring about the necessary changes to the political scene.
Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said the proposed referendum will be discussed at the joint meeting between the NCPO and the cabinet but insisted there is still time to make a decision.
However, the sooner the issue is settled, the better, so that the Election Commission can prepare for the referendum, he said.
The deputy prime minister also defended the NCPO and the government's silence on the issue.
"We all know the benefits and drawbacks of a referendum. But if we don't organise one, we have to explain why. Since we haven't said we won't do it, there is no need to explain for now," he said.
The National Reform Council launched its Reform Voices website Monday at www.reformvoices.com. The "online newspaper" aims to inform the public of the NRC's work on national reforms. (Photo by Chanat Katanyu)
The recommendations will be handed over to the CDC for consideration, said Mr Wissunu, adding that he believes the CDC will agree to amend the draft.
"They will make some changes, but not all. If they are confident about a part, they won't change it. But some differences will be ironed out," he said.
NRC whip Alongkorn Ponlaboot said Mr Thienchay recommended putting the entire draft charter to a referendum if the NRC endorses it, and that six months, instead of three months, should be allowed for preparations.
It will take time to distribute the draft, and for Thailand's 47 million voters to assess it, according to Mr Alongkorn.
However, the NCPO and the cabinet still have until Aug 6 to consider the NRC's proposal. There is no rush for them to decide when they meet Tuesday, he said.
The draft is being reviewed by the five rivers, which have until May 25 to propose changes. The CDC will consider revising the draft based on the suggestions before sending it back for an NRC vote on Aug 6.
If the NRC votes in favour the final draft will be sent to the King for royal endorsement on Sept 4.
"The NRC has no intention to prolong its stay. We are aware that we and the CDC are here after a coup. The constitution is the country's highest law and we think it is the people's right to digest it," Mr Alongkorn said.
