A model for a more representative Senate
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At this stage in the development of Thailand's democracy, there is a lot to be said for the idea of a partially appointed Senate, but the proportion of appointed senators should be limited to one-third (67 members). It should also be agreed at the outset
If 133 Senators had been elected at the last election in the same proportions as MPs, the government coalition would have 73 and the opposition parties 60, which would mean the government would require the support of 28 of 67 appointed senators in order to pass legislation.
If the appointed senators were truly independent, chosen for their expertise in a broad range of policy areas, and winning their support required the government to listen to their advice and amend bills, then they would perform a useful role.
I would like to see senators appointed, five from each of 13 groups: the arts, banking, business, retired civil servants, education, farmers, finance, legal, medical, retired military, retired police, NGOs and trade unions. The final two appointees would represent youth – two senators aged between 25 and 35.
Eleven Senators should be appointed each year to serve a single six-year term, and anyone should be eligible. I would charge the selection committee with ensuring that those chosen were drawn from all regions of the country and that half were women.
Dom Dunn
Bangkok
