Defense Bill to Proceed After Amendments, Says Prayut

BANGKOK: The Defense Organization Act is set to move forward after the withdrawal of 24 proposed amendments, according to Prayut Siripanich, a Member of Parliament for the Pheu Thai Party. Prayut emphasized the importance of the legislation, originally drafted during Suthin Khlangsaeng's tenure as Defense Minister, and expressed his commitment to advancing the bill despite initial setbacks. According to Thai News Agency, Prayut detailed his involvement with the draft legislation, noting that health issues had prevented him from attending a Pheu Thai Party meeting since April 2024. Upon his return in October, he reviewed the amendments to the Defense Ministry Act and confirmed he had no objections to the military's proposed changes. He acknowledged the historical role of the army in national defense and law preservation, asserting that his intentions were not malicious. Prayut addressed concerns about whether the law could prevent a coup, likening Thailand's democratic regime to a house protected by a legal framework. He cited Article 133 of the Constitution to support his proposal for a comprehensive law, emphasizing the importance of public involvement in safeguarding democracy. Although not required to present the matter to the party meeting, Prayut stated his intention to seek Pheu Thai Party backing for the bill. The draft legislation, not authored by Prayut himself, was initially prepared by the Ministry of Defense during Suthin's ministerial term and subsequently forwarded to the Pheu Thai Party. The party's legal committee made minor modifications, which deviated slightly from the original Ministry of Defense draft but aligned with global democratic practices. Upon reviewing the draft, Prayut identified 24 flaws requiring correction. Following meeting regulations, he intends to request the withdrawal of the draft for immediate amendments, a process he anticipates will take only a day before resubmission to parliament. Public opinion will also be considered in line with constitutional requirements, he n oted.