BANGKOK, 15 May 2015 The National Reform Council (NRC) has held a seminar on amendment suggestions for the new constitution. Feedback from participants has revealed a divide between political parties and civic groups on how the new constitution should establish guidelines for political groups.
A Democrat representative said his party disagrees with allowing political groups to run for office, saying the agendas of political groups often do not reflect the needs of the general public, unlike political parties. Therefore, allowing for political groups to run for office would cause conflict in the future.
Civic groups have a different perspective on the issue; they said that allowing political groups on the ballot would give voters more options and will give people more opportunity to have an independent in office.
The NRC political reform committee will hold a similar seminar on May 18, which will see the participation from academics, political scientists and law experts.
