Law review panel holds first meet on EC bill as concern grows over legislative delay
The joint law-review committee convened on Tuesday to examine the controversial Election Commission (EC) draft bill, the first of four organic laws required for the next general election.
National Legislative Assembly (NLA) vice president Surachai Liengboonlertchai was appointed to chair the panel.
The bill was passed by the NLA early this month, but the incumbent EC has proposed points arguing against its endorsement based on the constitutionality of the law.
The review committee will look into six proposals made by the EC, including the total resetting of its current membership.
It has 15 days to complete the review.
Opposition to the NLA’s endorsement of some of the organic bills has led to concern among political observers as to whether such a delay could affect the time frame for the coming election.
The Constitution Drafting Commission has 240 days to complete 10 organic laws in total, but if it can finish the first four laws, a general election can then be held without having to wait for the other six.
The general election is expected to be held late next year, and concerned parties including Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha affirmed on Monday that the government’s roadmap would not be postponed.