Referendum for Thailand’s New Constitution
It’s been a historic day for Thailand today with the country holding its first ever referendum. The vote was to see whether the Thai public would accept the new constitution. The charter was drafted by a committee appointed by the current military leaders.
With most of the votes already counted, the government has declared that the constitution has been approved by a majority of the voters although official results are to be announced tomorrow.
Military Coup
In September 2006, Prime Minister Thakisn Shinawatra was ousted from power by a bloodless military coup. Since then the country has been in political limbo. There were plenty of Thais who supported the coup, but support has remained strong in certain areas of the country for ousted PM Thaksin despite accusations of corruption against him.
The Yes Campaign
Supporters of the new constitution claim it will prevent any abuse of power from future governments. Prime Ministers will be limited to a maximum of two terms in office and there will supposedly be more transparency with regards to personal assets of politicians.
The No Campaign
Pro-Thaksin supporters say that the constitution has been drawn up by an illegitimate government and shows too much leniency toward the coup leaders.
What the Yes Vote Means for Thailand
Many Thais will see the approval of the new constitution as the first step to democratic elections. The military government promised elections by the end of the year if the constitution was approved. The next step is for the king to endorse the new constitution.
What the Vote Means for Tourists
The coup and its aftermath had virtually no impact on overseas visitors despite the initial concerns when tanks and troops were seen on the streets of Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.
The ongoing political situation is very much an internal issue and is unlikely to affect foreign tourists on their holiday in Thailand. There have been some demonstrations in Bangkok in the past few months and there will probably be more as various factions vie for power in the lead up to the promised elections before the end of the year.
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