Discussion on Amnesty for banned politicians
Thailand’s government is considering holding a referendum on an amnesty for banned politicians before elections next year, in an effort to appease opposition groups and restore Thailand’s battered image as a stable democracy.
The vote would likely focus on overturning a five-year ban on 220 lawmakers, many loyal to former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who was deposed in a 2006 coup. The bans took effect after courts disbanded their political parties, fueling clashes between Thaksin supporters and opponents.
The effort to restore political credibility come as the Southeast Asian country tries to fight its way out of recession. However, this amnesty would not include Mr.Thaksin as he is charged with a crime. The popular former leader fled Thailand last year before a court sentenced him to two years in prison on corruption charges. He claimed the trial was unfair.
Abhisit created a multi-party reconciliation panel to draft constitutional changes after protests in April. Political parties will now consider the panel’s recommendations before a wider debate starts in Parliament next month.
Former Prime ministers Samak Sundaravej, Somchai Wongsawat and Banharn Silapa-Archa are among the banned politicians. Dozens of former cabinet ministers and rural kingpins who had relatives stand in their place would also be free to run for office again if the country voted for an amnesty.