Wissanu wary of decree idea

Caretaker deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam yesterday warned people against suggesting how His Majesty the King should exercise his power, saying if the proposals are inappropriate, those who suggested them must be held responsible.
Wissanu was referring to comments by New Alternative Party leader Chalerm Yoobamrung, who suggested the government issue a Royal Decree suspending the enforcement of certain articles of the Constitution in order to break the current political deadlock. Chalerm said such a move would be legal as the government of Phya Manopakorn Nitithada, the first prime minister of Thailand, suspended the enforcement of some articles and appointed a new Cabinet in 1933. Wissanu said that although some suggestions are made with the good intention of seeking a solution for the country's problems, if it turns out to be inappropriate then whoever made the suggestion must take responsibility for it. Asked if he believed Chalerm's suggestion was practical, Wissanu said it might have been appropriate in 1933, but not now. "We have to be careful. Whoever makes a comment about the institution of the monarchy by suggesting the King should exercise his power in a certain way must be held responsible if their suggestions are inappropriate," he said. Democrat Party spokesman Ong-art Klampaiboon said he felt Chalerm's suggestion should be considered. The Democrat Party is ready to cooperate to break the political deadlock, he said. He said the Election Commission should no stop trying to buy time in an attempt to stay in power but should heed the suggestions of the Office of the Attorney-General.
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