'Bovornsak' Challenges Those Against Locking Chapters 1-2, Declares Conditions, Says No Other Chapters Will Be Touched, Points Out Royal Powers Still Exist in Multiple Chapters

Today (Jan 20) 10.00 am at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister Bovornsak Uwanno addressed the issue of some parties stating that there are no restrictions on amending Chapters 1 and 2 of the Constitution. He stated that those who claim Chapters 1 and 2 must not have reviewed the Constitutional Court's rulings. He noted that the government's actions are in accordance with the court's decisions and that merely restricting Chapters 1 and 2 is insufficient. He emphasized that other chapters also contain provisions regarding royal prerogatives, such as those concerning the Cabinet, the power to enact royal decrees, the power to approve treaties, the enactment of draft royal ordinances, and the appointment of civil servants. Furthermore, he mentioned the chapters on the State and Parliament, including the power to dissolve Parliament and approve royal ordinances dissolving the House of Representatives.

Mr. Bovornsak added that this also includes the chapter on constitutional amendments that prohibits changes to the democratic system with the king as head of state. He explained the limitations on what constitutes a change, such as a constitutional amendment that has been passed by referendum but not signed by the king, which is considered invalid. This has been the case since the drafting of the 2492 constitution. However, if someone argues that the king exercised his power to reject the amendment by refusing to sign it, and the parliament insists, it would be considered a change to the democratic system with a constitutional monarchy and would contradict the country's governing traditions. This is because the king's prerogative to establish a constitution is a right shared with the people.

When asked by a reporter whether those proposing to restrict Chapters 1 and 2 should clearly state their conditions, Mr. Bowornsak replied that such individuals should speak for themselves, and their statements should be recorded. They should detail everything, including what should not be changed, not just Chapters 1 and 2, as those issues are covered in many other chapters.

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