Thailand plans new constitution

“The selection today shows the constitution drafting process has begun and will likely be completed in the time frame earlier set by the coup leaders,” said Meechai Ruchupan, the Assembly president.

 

The leader’s of September’s coup scrapped the previous constitution and promised to draft a new one within six months – one they claim will have fewer loopholes and hold leaders more accountable than its predecessor.

 

Elections are expected to be held in October 2007.

 

An interim constitution unveiled on October 1 authorized the military-installed government to run the country until a permanent charter is completed.

 

Thailand has had 17 constitutions and undergone 18 coups since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932.