On the RECORD
Conflicts over reform the new flashpoint
Leader of the Nitirat group Worachet Pakeerat, a lecturer at Thammasat University's Faculty of Law, talks to NATTAYA CHETCHOTIROS about the coming year in politics, the government-proposed charter amendment and the need to erase the bootprints of the 2006 coup.
Do you think the constitutional amendment drive will lead to another coup d'etat?
It is possible. It depends on the strength of the public's intellect.
If we are too afraid of a coup to make a change, then we will not be able to do anything. We are afraid of generating conflict when we try to amend the constitution.
Why weren't coup-makers who mobilised troops and strategic resources against only one politician afraid of conflict?
So I say the use of logic among people in our country is not right.
What is the best way to amend the constitution?
We may or may not establish a Constitution Drafting Assembly. But there should definitely be a legitimate democratic body asked to draft the amendments.
The process would allow the public to learn about the proposed amendment without having to resort to confrontation.
Once the draft is completed, we could ask the public in a referendum whether they approve of it. Then society would be able to move forward.
If either camp cannot accept it [the results of the referendum], and they are supported by the elites, they could stage a coup again.
What do you think should be removed from the constitution?
We must merge some independent bodies. We must restructure the judicial system so it is more responsive to the public.
The structure of the judiciary must be revamped. The selection of judges must be approved by parliament.
Why is it necessary to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, the lese majeste law?
This section has been used as a tool to silence people about the monarchy. People who talk about the institution in a contemptuous or offensive way will be punished, but we need to amend the law so these people receive reasonable penalties.
How do you see the overall political picture this coming year?
The political situation will be about conflicts over ideologies. It will not be focused on Thaksin [Shinawatra, the former prime minister] any more. It will be more about principles.
Politically, I believe there will emerge more criteria to classify people than just by colour. But people will still mainly divide into two groups _ those who want democratic reform and those who do not want any change. I believe Thaksin will continue to have a role behind those movements. But the government will try to minimise the chances of violence.
Do you think Thaksin is upset that the ties between the Pheu Thai-led government and the military have been so good?
Thaksin has endorsed this approach. It is a good approach. It's people who support him who might be upset.
In the middle of this year, the political ban against 111 former executives of the dissolved Thai Rak Thai Party will end. Should the Pheu Thai Party dissolve the House and bring in a new team of MPs?
When this group of people resurfaces, rifts will occur. It will lead to a third choice. We can only wait and see.
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