Call to cut role of judges

The committee members recognised problems in the checks-and-balances system among the three sovereign powers - the administrative, legislative and judicial branches - due to the improper power of constitutionally independent organisations such as the Constitution Court.

It would be better for the Constitution Court to consider cases of laws conflicting with the charter, than cases which could indicate the future of the government or political parties, committee members said.

While these independent organisations examine mechanisms of sovereign power, they themselves lack proper checks-and-balances mechanisms and some appeared to have abused power, some members said.

The court's authority should be reduced, especially in its role in the administrative and legislative branches, most committee members agreed. Also, the Constitution Court and independent organisations according to the charter should relate more to people as well as the Parliament.

Committee member Pavich Thongroj proposed the selection process of the Constitution Court be revised. Thammasat University law lecturer Prasit Pivavatnapanich said the court should be dropped as part of the selection committee for members of independent organisations.

The committee will resume discussion on more measures for political reform today.