Bangkok: Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, a party-list MP from the People's Party, has voiced strong criticism of the government for its failure to advance significant legislative amendments, including changes to the Constitution, the PRTR Act, the Factory Act, the land amnesty law, and the military court law. In a recent parliamentary session, he questioned whether the government's reluctance to push these amendments was due to fears of impacting their power base and business interests.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong spoke during the second joint parliamentary session of the year, which focused on the approval and consideration of draft bills not yet finalized by Parliament. He expressed gratitude to the Cabinet for revisiting 34 laws but highlighted the importance of laws that have been rejected. Nattapong emphasized the People's Party's readiness to discuss laws related to environmental protection, land amnesty, labor rights, military reform, and constitutional amendments.
Mr. Nattapong specifically criticized the government's lack of progress on environmental laws, such as the Pollutant Reporting and Disclosure Act (PRTR) and the Factory Act, which are crucial for ensuring transparency and adherence to international standards. He questioned why these laws, alongside the reinstated Clean Air Act, were not being prioritized, especially given Thailand's ambition to join the OECD, which requires clear pollution regulations.
The issue of land amnesty was another focal point. Nattapong highlighted the injustices faced by ethnic groups and individuals prosecuted for residing on lands later declared as forest areas. These actions stemmed from the NCPO government's policy and have led to calls for land amnesty to restore justice. He urged the government to explain its rejection of such laws.
Labor protection laws were also addressed, with Nattapong pointing out that labor is integral to the economic system. He argued that economic crises should not be used as an excuse to neglect labor rights, stressing the need for equitable economic growth that benefits all.
Regarding the Military Court Act, Nattapong raised concerns about corruption and the necessity for a robust system of checks and balances that meets international standards. He questioned whether military personnel should be tried in military courts or the regular justice system, advocating for a neutral organization to oversee such processes.
Finally, Nattapong addressed the draft amendment to the Constitution, challenging the government's rationale for not submitting the previous draft to the current parliament. He questioned whether legislative power lies with the government or parliament and called for a political, rather than technical, response on the criteria for law selection and rejection.