Three-way split
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Group 1: Wants Parliament should have the final vote to change Article 291, enabling the government to appoint Constitution drafters to draw up an entirely new charter.
It rejects the Constitution Court’s judgement, claiming the court has no authority to dictate Parliament. Former acting chief of the defunct Thai Rak Thai Party Chaturon Chaisaeng and most red shirts support this.
Group 2: Agrees with the Constitution Court to hold a national referendum to allow eligible voters to help decide if the people want to rewrite the charter. It would be safe for Pheu Thai to follow the court’s advice. Most Pheu Thai MPs and party “mentor” Thaksin Shinawatra want the government to do this.
Group 3: Suggests that the government should amend articles in the Constitution separately, as they realise it would be very difficult for the government to win a majority support in a referendum. Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung and some 10 MPs from the Northeast back this approach.
