Parliament Divided Over Amnesty Bill As Opposition Attacks Senate
Parliament debated a controversial amnesty bill on July 8, with lawmakers divided over Senate amendments that exclude minors from Article 112 protections, with critics arguing the selective approach undermines genuine political reconciliati
The House of Representatives convened on July 8, 2025, under the chairmanship of Deputy Speaker Malika Jirapanthavanich to consider the Promotion of Peaceful Society Bill following Senate amendments. The Senate had modified the law to exclude minors under 18 from Article 112 amnesty.
Sathawat Khumkhong, Chonburi MP from the Thai People's Party, objected to the Senate amendments, arguing that excluding Article 112 offenses constitutes selective rather than genuine reconciliation. He insisted that authentic political amnesty cannot exclude certain crimes and that failure to address Article 112 leaves Thailand's political wounds unhealed.
Thongtharm Wetyachai, Thai for Thailand Party list MP, supported the bill despite its imperfections, arguing that moving the country forward immediately is preferable to indefinite delays. He stated his party seeks a path all sides can accept.
Dr. Woranart Dechkitwikrom, Thai Loyalty Party list MP, supported the Senate amendments but expressed concern about exemptions covering Articles 124, 184, and 190 related to state secrets and harboring fugitives, worrying these provisions could benefit involved parties inappropriately.
Abbhisit Vejjajiva, Democrat Party leader and list MP, supported the bill while identifying two concerns: the Senate's exclusion of youth from Article 112 amnesty, which should be voluntary rather than automatic; and provisions in the schedule potentially benefiting certain politicians. He noted approximately 6,000 people would benefit from the amnesty and expressed hope it could reduce tensions related to institutional conflicts.
