House supports royal security decree
The House of Representatives yesterday passed an executive decree on the partial transfer of army units and budget to a royal security command unit.
The House passed the executive decree by 374-70 votes. All of the 70 votes against the decree were made by Future Forward Party (FFP) MPs.
The FFP argued that use of an executive decree for a “nonurgent” matter showed that the cabinet was misusing its power.
The decree allows for the transfer of some of the manpower and budget allocation of the 1st Infantry Regiment of the Ratcha Wallop Royal Guards and the 11th Infantry Regiment of the Ratcha Wallop Royal Guards to the royal security command unit.
The unit is charged with planning, directing, coordinating and supervising operations which provide security to Their Majesties the King and Queen, the heir to the throne, royal family members, royal representatives, people acting at the command of the King, and royal guests.
There were 446 MPs present in the House for the vote yesterday morning. The 70 MPs who voted against the decree are members of the 81-strong opposition FFP. Two MPs abstained — FFP MP for Chiang Mai Srinuan Boonlue and government MP Pol Maj Gen Surin Palarae of the Democrat Party.
Meanwhile, three FFP MPs voted for the decree — Chon Buri MP Kawinnart Takee, Chanthaburi MPs Jaruek Sri-on and Pol Lt Col Thanaphat Kittiwongsa.
Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said it was not unusual to have votes against the decree since it was a parliamentary vote, which means sides can either agree or disagree to the move.
He confirmed that the act has nothing to do with the high institution but it was proposed by the government.
Before the vote, FFP secretarygeneral and list-MP Piyabutr Saengkanokkul told the House the executive decree violated Section 172 of the constitution, which says executive decrees should be used for urgent issues.
“The issuing of this executive decree shows a problem with the cabinet exercising its power, and Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prayut Chano-cha is familiar with possessing and exercising special power,” Mr Piyabutr said.
“I reserve the right to oppose the executive decree because it does not comply with the constitution.”