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Published on December 22, 2007

Prasong Soonsiri heads the 27 NLA members opposed to the law. He submitted their names to Speaker Meechai Ruchuphan, paving the way for a Constitution Court hearing.

"After the petition reaches the Constitution Court, the process to enact the law must be suspended, pending a ruling," Prasong said.

If enacted, the legislation will grant autonomy to Chulalongkorn, making it a public institute, not a state university.

Several university lecturers opposed the legislation, arguing it will allow university executives a freer hand in the management of the school's lucrative properties. This will distract them from running an excellent academic institution.

NLA member Paisal Puetmongkol said the legislation breached the Constitution. It puts the university above budget and administrative laws, he said.

He believes the bill would benefit the wealthy and well educated.

Meanwhile, Prasong said there was no objection to the Internal Security Act, which sailed through the assembly on Thursday.

He said all unconstitutional clauses had been removed.

Both approved laws do not come into effect until they appear in the Royal Gazette.

The Nation