Bangkok: "Pisit" has formally requested to withdraw his amendment proposal, which aimed to lift the exclusion clause that prevents senators from participating in elections or holding political office, due to concerns it might be perceived as favoritism or having a hidden agenda.
According to Thai News Agency, the special parliamentary session continued into its second day, focusing on the draft constitutional amendment. During the session, Senator Pisit Apiwatanapong, a committee member who reserved the right to amend Article 256/Sub-article 26, had initially proposed an amendment. This amendment sought to allow senators whose terms have expired to run for election as Members of Parliament or hold any political office without time restrictions, though they would still be barred from re-election as senators. The amendment also aimed to affirm the status of the Senate and independent commissioners under the 2017 Constitution, allowing them to complete their terms.
Mr. Pisit expressed his desire to withdraw his amendment reservation, stating that his proposal was made with the intent to ensure the Senate and independent committees continue to function effectively, with no ulterior motives beyond serving the public's best interests. However, after the committee's report was released, most senators opposed his amendment reservation. Mr. Pisit noted that after hearing feedback from his fellow senators and the public, he feared his intentions could be misconstrued as an attempt for personal gain or a Senate power grab. To preserve parliamentary dignity and dispel any suspicions of a hidden agenda in the constitutional amendment process, he reaffirmed his commitment to representing the Thai people sincerely. This decision ensures that the constitutional amendment process proceeds without accusations of conflicts of interest, maintaining the democratic integrity of the Constitution. Consequently, he requested the withdrawal of all reservations related to the amendments to the specified articles and sub-articles.