Amnesty Bill Likely to Pass, Bhumjaithai Defends Section 112 Stance
The ruling coalition is expected to pass an amnesty bill excluding lèse-majesté charges after Senate amendments, with Bhumjaithai defending the exclusion of Section 112 offenses during its coalition meeting on July 6.
Kraveekorn Parisunanungul, an Ang Thong MP from the Bhumjaithai party and chairman of the ruling coalition coordination committee, discussed the upcoming consideration of the Amnesty Bill by the House of Representatives following amendments made by the Senate, including excluding Section 112 criminal code violations from amnesty coverage.
Kraveekorn stated that the ruling coalition will hold its weekly meeting on July 6 to discuss the amnesty bill returned from the Senate and how coalition parties view the amendments. He indicated that the Senate's modifications appear acceptable to the political side, though if any member has concerns, a joint committee of both chambers would need to be established.
Kraveekorn expressed confidence the bill will ultimately pass, noting that Bhumjaithai party has no issues with the changes. However, discussions with the Pheu Thai party are necessary to understand their position. He acknowledged that opposition parties have made clear they do not accept the bill and are requesting a joint committee be formed.
Kraveekorn reaffirmed that maintaining amnesty for political cases while excluding Section 112 offenses remains Bhumjaithai's fixed position. He believed the law would ultimately pass, though if a joint committee is established, the process could take 2-3 months longer before reaching the next parliamentary session.
