Junta urged to listen, 'walk with citizens'
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THE head of the Political Development Council (PDC) suggested yesterday that holding a referendum and listening to people's voices would determine the success of the new charter and reform.
PDC president Theerapat Serirangsan, who was sharing his views at a forum marking the council’s seventh anniversary, said that achieving national reform would also give citizens more freedom and boost public participation.
“Holding a public referendum to scrutinise the new charter and giving them an opportunity to make decisions on the new charter could lead to true reform,” he said.
Theerapat said many countries chose to redraft their charter if it did not go through a public plebiscite.
He also said that reform was necessary in Thailand due to crises on the business and political fronts.
However, public participation in national reform could only take place if people were allowed freedom to think and express their views – something that is restricted in the current situation, he said.
“People’s rights cannot be cancelled or neglected, no government can reject the public’s fundamental rights,” he said.
Theerapat said the government could only show its sincerity if it arranges a forum for people to propose their ideas, despite martial law being in place.
“This especially includes the new charter. I suggest that the government have its representatives listen to people’s proposals without judging them as right or wrong, even if these ideas are not in accordance with those of the government.”
“If this does not happen, disputes could emerge from the very start, which would turn out of be very dangerous for national reform. The government’s most important task should be strengthening the public’s role.”
The PDC chief added that public participation would mean little if political leaders do not become role models and earn the respect and support of the public.
“I believe that the authorities are sincere and honest about wanting to turn this country into a true democracy. However, I would urge you, sirs, to listen to the people more and walk with the citizens.”
