Truth Commission warns against rushed reconciliation
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The Truth for Reconciliation Commission of Thailand (TRCT) on Wednesday issued a warning that political strife risked becoming inflamed if the government were to keep pushing for the passage of the reconciliation bill in a hasty manner.
The TRCT said the rushed reconciliation would end up damaging the fence-mending efforts.
“As we saw last week, the House tried to put the bill on the fast-track and this resulted in driving a wedge in society,” it said in a statement.
In order to avoid triggering political violence, relevant parties, particularly the government and the ruling Pheu Thai Party, should review the push for the bill’s passage at this juncture.
“The opposing sides should also exercise restraint and refrain from provoking each other.”
Further more, the public forum should be organised to kick-start a dialogue on reconciliation. Members of the public should have full access to pertinent information to enable them to understand and draw conclusions on issues related to reconciliation and amnesty.
The TRCT voiced concern that last week’s fracas in the House would set a bad precedent in the legislature, which is a venerated institution.
All those involved in the unruly behaviour should step forward and accept responsibility for their misconduct, it said.
It went on to call on the judiciary, particularly the Constitution Court, to take extra precautions when dealing with politically motivated cases. Doubts about impartiality could hurt the confidence in the judicial integrity.
Past bloodshed should serve as a lesson on tragic losses. All sides should strive to settle the differences via peaceful means. Incitement of hatred, agitation and provocation should not be condoned.
