Thai parliament approves changes to interim charter
NAN-F-28
Parliament
Bangkok, Jan. 13, 2017 (dpa/NAN) Thailand’s constitution came one step closer to completion Friday a prerequisite for promised elections as the country’s parliament approved an amendment requested by the king’s office.
The changes, requested by King Maha Bodindradebayavarangkun’s office, concern the designation of a regent when the king is outside of Thailand or unable to perform his duties, the report said.
It said that the amendments to the interim charter also allow Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to amend the new constitution accordingly.
“This is solely about royal power and is not concerning people’s rights,” Prayut said.
The military-appointed National Legislative Assembly (NLA) passed the amendment with 228 votes in favour and three absentions.
The new constitution passed in a referendum on Aug. 7 but has not been endorsed by the king.
The last day for royal endorsement of the constitution is Feb. 6.
Concerns about election delays were raised after remarks made last week by members of the NLA suggesting lawmakers would need at least 15 months to finalise election laws and hold the election.
Election laws need to be in accordance with the royally endorsed constitution, lawmakers said.
Vajiralongkorn succeeded his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, a revered monarch who died on Oct. 13 after more than seven decades on the throne. (dpa/NAN)
(Edited by Celine-Damilola Oyewole/Julius Enehikhuere)