King’s meddling delays democracy’s return

THAILAND: Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn has demanded changes to the country’s new constitution, in an ominous move that threatens to delay even further a longpostponed return to democracy.

General Prayuth Chan-ocha, head of the nation’s ruling junta, announced yesterday that he would use his self-assumed powers to make the changes requested by the monarch.

This is despite the constitution’s final draft having been approved August.

Prayuth did not describe what the changes were but said they related to the powers given to the king.

‘‘There are three or four points that need to be amended. It does not involve people’s rights and freedom at all. It is about His Majesty’s authority.’’

It is the 64-year old king’s first intervention in politics since he succeeded his much-loved father, Bhumibol, who died last October, in a referendum last aged 88. During his 70-year reign, Bhumibol exerted considerable influence, summoning politicians to resolve deadlocks.

The Thai monarchy is protected by a draconian lese-majeste law that stifles criticism of the royal family. However, the king’s official powers, as outlined in the constitution, have been limited and are subordinate to those of Thailand’s political leaders.

Vajiralongkorn’s efforts to change this will alarm those who regard him as less temperate and responsible than his father. The proposed changes risk jeopardising the introduction of the new constitution and a return to democracy.

Prayuth seized power in 2014 after months of demonstrations against the elected government.

His first draft constitution was rejected by the assembly of tame delegates he appointed. The second was approved last year in a referendum in which debate was stifled and opponents were locked up.

– The Times