Abhisit still keen to play role in the reform process

Abhisit said the steering council was unlike the National Reform Council, which had the authority to pass or reject the charter draft. The steering council only worked to push through reforms, thus there was no conflict of interest. So, anybody could join, including politicians, he said.

Asked if he would send representatives to sit on the steering council, the Democrat leader said so far he had no idea about the registration or the quota, but there shouldn’t be any problem.

However, he said his party had not held any meetings so far, so no members would be competing for seats in the steering council on behalf of the party.

Abhisit added that everyone could participate in the reform process. Although they do not have a seat on the steering council, they could still voice opinions. The attempt by the government to include parties should not be used to demonstrate reconciliation, but to show its seriousness in getting everyone involved in reform work.

National Legislative Assembly President Pornpet Vichitcholcha said it would take more time before the appointment of the steering council members was complete. Personally, he believed it should be made up from five main sources: first, public servants who are knowledgeable, understanding and have roles in pushing the work; second, retired public servants; third, noble people regardless of their political preferences; fourth, security officers; and fifth, possibly 50-70 former NRC members.

Pornpet admitted there had been lobbying attempts among those desiring to be on the charter drafting committees and the reform steering panel.

He said he had been approached as it was misunderstood he had power to appoint the members, when actually he didn’t.