Mon Sep 23 22:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Pheu Thai Defends Charter Amendment Proposal Amidst Criticism
**Bangkok, Thailand** – The Pheu Thai Party, currently in power, has come under fire for its proposed amendment to the constitution, specifically regarding ethical standards for political officeholders. The proposal, aiming to revise the charter section by section, has been criticized by some as self-serving and a conflict of interest.
The proposed amendment was sparked by the recent removal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court due to an ethical violation. This prompted the ruling party to clarify what constitutes ethical grounds for action against public officials, arguing it merely seeks to define ethical standards and prevent future administrative problems.
The proposed changes, however, have faced backlash from critics who argue they undermine the charter’s anti-corruption principles. While the party insists the changes won’t be retroactive, the opposition remains wary.
Senator Nantana Nantavaropas, while acknowledging flaws in the current charter, voiced support for the amendments if they address those issues before a new constitution is drafted. She stressed the need for clear definitions of ethical standards, currently subject to interpretation by the Constitutional Court.
However, others like Sonthiya Sawatdee, a former adviser to the House committee on law, justice, and human rights, submitted a petition to Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, urging him not to put the proposals on the agenda. He deemed the amendments a conflict of interest and not an urgent matter.
Former senator, Somchai Swangkarn, further expressed concerns, stating that the amendment proposal is unlikely to be for public benefit but rather for politicians facing investigations. He warned of a potential political crisis if the amendments, requiring one-third of the Senate’s support, pass through parliament.
Parliament’s legal affairs team is currently reviewing the charter amendment proposals, with President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha emphasizing that the parliament will consider and make decisions ensuring changes are in the best interest of the public and that the law is applied fairly.
The proposed amendments are set to be discussed further with coalition partners on October 1, with a tentative schedule for a charter rewrite referendum to be announced. This will likely lead to more debate and scrutiny of the proposed changes, with the potential for significant implications for the future of Thai politics.
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