Thailand on Sunday began voting on a referendum regarding a draft Constitution put together by a committee appointed by the country's army. The army had revoked the former Constitution of the nation when it took over power to run the country in 2014, reported The Guardian. After the new Constitution is put in place, the country will have its elections in 2017, but the new government will have to abide by the army's rules and conditions.
Prayuth Chan-ocha (pictured above) has been the prime minister of the country since the military coup two years ago. He has said that he will resign from his post if the public rejects the new Constitution. He has also assured the citizens that the general elections will take place in 2017 irrespective of the referendum's outcome. “We need to hold a general election in 2017 because that is a promise we made.There has been no charter that pleases people 100%,” he said.
The Election Commission is expecting an 80% turnout, and the results will be declared by Sunday evening. If passed, this will be Thailand's 20th Constitution.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!