Public debate on new charter ahead of referendum
A debate on the new constitution will be televised by Nation Channel on August 3 to raise awareness of the referendum and help voters weigh the charter's pros and cons, an organiser said on Thursday.
"In light of confusion about the referendum, P-Net wants to offer a neutral venue for rival camps to air their views," said Saiyud Kerdphol, chairman of the People's Network for Elections (P-Net), an independent watchdog.
The Nation Channel, a co-organiser, is a cable news station and sister company of The Nation.
The forum, scheduled for 9am-noon at Baan Manangkasila on Larn Luang Road, would convey important facts to voters without swaying their judgement one way or another, Saiyud said.
Representing the pro-charter side will be Constitution Drafting Assembly chairman Noranit Sethabutr, Constitution Drafting Committee chairman Prasong Soonsiri and his secretary Somkid Lertpaitoon.
The critics will feature Midnight University academic Nidhi Aoseewong, Thai Rak Thai Group leader Chaturon Chaisang and Thammasat University law lecturer Vorachet Pakeerat.
Noranit said he was willing to explain charter provisions but would avoid being dragged into a war of words.
"It's my job to clarify the charter although my participation should not be construed as a fight to win or lose a contest," he said.
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