Key political figures in Thailand’s government have expressed mixed opinions on a draft bill proposed by the Pheu Thai Party to amend the Ministry of Defense’s administrative laws. The proposed legislation aims to grant the Cabinet authority to appoint senior military officers as a measure to prevent coups.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul opposed the coup-prevention aspect, arguing that coups are conditional on political instability and can’t be stopped by laws. He emphasized that politicians should maintain honesty and unity to avoid creating conditions for a coup.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that the proposal is under review in the Ministry of Defense and broader discussions are necessary to balance practical reforms with current realities. Phumtham stressed that the government has no intention of reducing military authority and that the relationship between the military and politics remains positive.
Akkaradej Wongpitakroj, spokesperson for the United Thai Nation Party, also highlighted the sensitivity of the proposed reforms, noting that they could impact national security and the military’s institutional role. He called for careful deliberation, acknowledging the proposal’s significance and potential implications.