Opposition plus government MPs were up in arms yesterday after listening to rumours that crucial government figures are planning to float a fresh charter amendment bill using the current one-ballot political election system intact.
After a 12 months of deliberation between lawmakers, a bill planning to amend the political election law by applying a two-ballot program and changing the composition of constituency and party-list MPs from 350: 150 to 400: a hundred has been in the works, recently passing the third reading.
However , their plan to change the kingdom’s ballot system may face another challenge after rumours started circulating that several government MPs may withdraw support for that two-ballot bill.
Somkid Chueaknong, Pheu Thai MP for Ubon Ratchathani, said if genuine, it would be an attempt simply by government MPs to eliminate any disadvantage in the next general election.
The two-ballot system is widely seen as advantageous to a politics party like Pheu Thai as it chases a landslide triumph at the next vote at the expense associated with small parties.
“Pheu Thai doesn’t care how many ballots will be utilized, but we worry about what is right and exactly what the majority says, ” Mr Somkid mentioned, adding those looking for the one-ballot system must answer exactly how it would do the general public any good.
Thirajchai Phanthumat, a Move Forward Party list MP, said the particular move would not make certain fair election rules.
This individual said the proceed would still need a charter change, that is a lengthy process, yet noted that it is probable to retain the one-ballot system as the federal government has support through the Senate.
Several MPs in the ruling Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) within the North are considered strongly opposed to the use of the one-ballot program as it does not give them an advantage.
However , chief federal government whip Nirote Sunthornlekha yesterday denied the rumours, noting it is unlikely because the draft organic law to the election of MPs aims to apply a two-ballot program.
“A charter amendment is needed, so I think it is too much off, ” Mr Nirote said. “The PPRP has no issue with either system. We are confident in our assistance base. ”