DATELINE BANGKOK

Martial law lifted as charter writers begin their work

Thai Rath Editorial : A semblance of political normalcy was restored after martial law, which was imposed after a coup on Sept 19 last year, was officially lifted in 41 of the country's 76 provinces. Bangkok was among the provinces where it was lifted, while the southernmost provinces and most of the northern and northeastern provinces are still subject to military restrictions. Meanwhile, the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC) has begun its work on the first draft of a new constitution, which is expected to be completed on April 19. The final draft, expected to be completed on July 6, will be put before a referendum. If everything goes as planned, a general election should be held by September.

Military restrictions on political activities are likely to be lifted soon so that members of the public can give their opinions before the final draft constitution is finalised by the CDC.

Judging from the comments made by the CDC's chairman and some of its members, the new constitution will state that the prime minister must be an elected member of the House of Representatives. Suggestions had been made earlier that the prime minister might be appointed.

Critics, however, fear that some of its members might call for an appointed Senate. This is a testy issue because the previous constitution, torn up by the coup-makers, stipulated that members of the Senate must be elected.

The partial lifting of martial law should improve the country's image in the eyes of the international community. After the coup, some political commentators put Thailand in the same league as Burma, which is run by a military government.

Thai people must keep monitoring the CDC to ensure that the new constitution is democratic. It must be able to solve longstanding political problems.

Bangkok Post
Friday February 02, 2007