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The Democracy Monument: a representation of the 1932 Constitution sits on top of two golden offering bowls above a turret, in a traffic circle in the center of Bangkok.

The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand was the supreme law of the Kingdom of Thailand. Since the founding of the modern state in 1932, Thailand has had 16 charters and constitutions, reflecting the high degree of political instability and frequency of military coups faced by the nation. After successful coups, military regimes often abrogated existing constitutions and promulgated new ones. Image File history File links Current_event_marker. ... Image File history File links Ac. ... Image File history File links Ac. ... The Democracy Monument, Bangkok The Democracy Monument (in Thai: Anusawari Prachathipatai) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. ... A traffic circle is an intersection with a circular shape and, usually, a central island. ... The Bangkok Skytrain at sunset on Thanon Narathiwat Ratcha Nakharin with Empire Tower at the back. ... The stela of King Hammurabi depicts the god Shamash revealing a code of laws to the king. ... A coup détat, or simply a coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government, usually done by a small group that just replaces the top power figures. ...

All of Thailand's charters and constitutions have stipulated a constitutional monarchy, but with widely differing balances of power between the branches of government. Most of them have stipulated parliamentary systems, however, several of them stipulated dictatorships, e.g., the 1957 Charter. Both unicameral and bicameral parliaments have been stipulated, and members of parliament have been both elected and appointed. The direct powers of the monarch have also varied considerably. This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... The doctrine and practice of dispersing political power and creating mutual accountability between political entities such as the courts, the president or prime minister, the legislature, and the citizens. ... A parliamentary system, or parliamentarism, is distinguished by the executive branch of government being dependent on the direct or indirect support of the parliament, often expressed through a vote of confidence. ... Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler were two of the 20th centurys most notorious dictators. ... Unicameralism is the practice of having only one legislative or parliamentary chamber. ... In government, bicameralism is the practice of having two legislative or parliamentary chambers. ... A Member of Parliament, or MP, is a representative elected by the voters of an electoral district to a parliament; in the Westminster system, specifically to the lower house. ... An election is a decision making process whereby people vote for preferred political candidates or parties to act as representatives in government. ...

Thailand's last constitution was promulgated in 1997, and was considered a landmark in terms of the degree of public participation involved in its drafting as well as the democratic nature of its articles. It stipulates a bicameral legislature, both houses of which are elected. Many human rights are explicitely acknowledged, and measures were established to increase the stability of elected governments. In administrative rulemaking, public participation refers to the process by which proposed rules are subject to public comment for a specified period of time. ... A legislature is a type of representative deliberative assembly with the power to adopt laws. ... Human rights are rights which some hold to be inalienable and belonging to all humans. ...

However, following an army-led coup on 19 September 2006, the 1997 Constituton was abrogated. The royally-endorsed junta then ruled the country by martial law and executive decree. The junta promulgated an interim constitution on 1 October 2006. The Interim Constitution stipulated a junta appointed Prime Minister, legislature, and drafting committee for a permanent constitution. Wikinews has news related to: Tanks surround government buildings in Bangkok The 2006 Thailand coup attempt is an attempted coup détat by members of the Royal Thai Army against the government of Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ... October 1 is the 274th day of the year (275th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Overview

Thailand

This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Thailand Image File history File links Flag_of_Thailand. ... Thailand had been ruled by kings since the 13th century. ...

King Bhumibol Adulyadej Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont 2006 political crisis 2006 coup d'état Council for National Security Sonthi Boonyaratkalin Civilian interim government National Assembly Senate House of Representatives Political parties Elections April 2006 (invalidated) October 2006 (cancelled) Constitutions 1997 Constitution (abrogated) 2006 Interim Constitution Provinces and districts Human rights South Thailand insurgency Foreign relations Foreign aid

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Since the overthrow of the absolute monarchy in 1932, Siam (today known as Thailand) has had 16 constitutions and charters^[1][2]. The kings in the current Chakri dynasty of Thailand are often referred to as Rama followed by Roman ordinal in English translation. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The following is a list of Prime Ministers of Thailand: Phraya Manopakorn Nititada, (1932-1933) General Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena, (1933-1938) Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, (1938-1944) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1944-1945) Tawee Boonyaket, (1945) Seni Pramoj, (1945) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1946) Luang Praditmanutham, (1946) Rear Admiral Thawal Thamrong Navaswadhi... General Surayud Chulanont (Thai: ) is the current Prime Minister of Thailand. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ... In September 2006, following a lengthy political crisis in Thailand, members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup détat against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ... General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratglin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... Political parties in Thailand lists political parties in Thailand. ... Politics of Thailand Categories: Election related stubs | Elections in Thailand ... National legislative elections were held in Thailand. ... After Thailands April 2006 elections were declared invalid by the Constitutional Court, it was decided that new elections would be held on 15 October 2006. ... The Democracy Monument: a representation of the 1932 Constitution sits on top of two golden offering bowls above a turret, in a traffic circle in the center of Bangkok. ... Thailand is divided into 75 provinces (จังหวัด, changwat), and one municipality - the capital Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai). ... Human Rights in Thailand The constitution provides for freedom of speech, press, peaceful assembly and association, religion, and movement within the country and abroad. ... Flag of Pattani Raya, a symbol of Pattani separatism The South Thailand insurgency is a separatist campaign centered in the Pattani region, three southern provinces of Thailand, with violence increasingly spilling over into neighbouring provinces and threatening to extend up to the national capital in Bangkok. ... Thailands foreign policy includes support for ASEAN in the interest of regional stability and emphasis on a close and longstanding security relationship with the United States. ... Foreign Aid to Thailand On July 31, 2003, Thailand repaid its outstanding obligations under a standby arrangement from the International Monetary Fund designed to help it recover from the 1997–98 Asian financial crisis. ... Information on politics by country is available for every country, including both de jure and de facto independent states, inhabited dependent territories, as well as areas of special sovereignty. ... The Siamese coup detat on June 24, 1932 marked the bloodless transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy in Thailand. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... For the country formerly called Siam see Thailand SIAM is an acronym for Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. ...

1. Temporary Charter for the Administration of Siam Act 1932.
2. The Constitution of the Siam Kingdom 1932
3. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1946.
4. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (Temporary) 1947.
5. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1949.
6. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1932 (Revised 1952)
7. Charter for the Administration of the Kingdom 1959.
8. Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1968.
9. Temporary Charter for Administration of the Kingdom 1972.
10. Constitution for the Administration of the Kingdom 1974.
11. Constitution for Administration of the Kingdom 1976.
12. Charter for Administration of the Kingdom 1977.
13. Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1978.
14. Charter for Administration of the Kingdom 1991.
15. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1991.
16. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand 1997.
17. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (Interim) 2006.

Charters have traditionally been temporary instruments, promulgated following military coups. However, some charters, for instance the 1959 Charter of military dictator Sarit Dhanarajata, were used for years at a time.^[3] The 2006 coup resulted in an interim constitution rather than an interim charter. A coup détat, or simply a coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government, usually done by a small group that just replaces the top power figures. ... Field Marshal Sarit Dhanarajata (Thai: สฤษดิ์ ธนะรัชต์, pronounced, and also sometimes spelled, as Sarit Thanarat) (June 16, 1908 - December 8, 1963) staged a coup in 1957 and served as Thailands dictator until his death in 1963. ...

The great number of charters and constitutions is indicative of the degree of political instability Thailand has faced in its modern history. The majority of charters and constitutions were the direct or indirect result of military coups. Charters and constitutions for much of Thai history can be thought of, not as instruments of the people to control the government, but as instruments by which a government controls its people.

All of Thailand's charters and constitutions have stipulated a constitutional monarchy. Widely varying, however, have been the strength of the legislature, the extent to which the legislature is appointed vs. elected, the power of the monarch, and the strength of the executive. These parameters have been influenced by the political and military strength of the regime and the degree of support from the king and the palace. For instance, the 1959 Charter gave Sarit Dhanarajata absolute power over the executive and the legislature, which reflected the overwhelming strength with which he executed a coup over Plaek Pibulsonggram as well as his strong support from the palace. This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... A legislature is a type of representative deliberative assembly with the power to adopt laws. ... Field Marshal Sarit Dhanarajata (Thai: สฤษดิ์ ธนะรัชต์, pronounced, and also sometimes spelled, as Sarit Thanarat) (June 16, 1908 - December 8, 1963) staged a coup in 1957 and served as Thailands dictator until his death in 1963. ... Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsonggram (July 14, 1897–June 11, 1964) (Thai แปลก พิบูลสงคราม or ป. พิบูลสงคราม, lastname sometimes spelled Phibunsongkhram, Phibul Songkhram or Pibul Songgram) was Prime Minister and military dictator of Thailand from 1938 to 1944 and 1948 to 1957. ...

Based on the degree by which the legislature is elected, Thailand's 16 constitutions and charters can be categorized into 3 groups:

1. Elected legislatures: The legislature is completely elected. This included the 1946 Constitution (where the elected House selected the Senate) and the 1997 Constitution (where both the House and Senate are elected).
2. Appointed legislatures: The legislature is partly elected and partly appointed by the executive. The appointed members of the legislature are sufficient to limit the power of the elected representatives. The Prime Minister is either a military leader or a figurehead of the military or the palace. This includes the (after 1937), the 1947 Charter, the 1949 Constitution, the 1952 Constitution, the 1968 Constitution, the 1974 Constitution, the 1978 Constitution, and the 1991 Constitution.
3. Absolute executives: The executive has absolute or near absolute power, with either no legislature or a completely appointed legislature. The Prime Minister is usually a military leader or a figurehead of the military or the palace. This includes the 1932 constitutions (before 1937), the 1959 Charter, the 1972 Charter, the 1976 Constitution, the 1991 Charter, and Thailand's current charter, the 2006 Interim Charter.

Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (968x837, 16 KB) Summary Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Constitution of Thailand ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (968x837, 16 KB) Summary Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Constitution of Thailand ...

The 1932 Temporary Charter

See also the Siamese coup d'état of 1932 The Siamese coup detat on June 24, 1932 marked the bloodless transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy in Thailand. ...

On 24 June 1932, the People's Party, a coalition of civil servants, princes, and army officers, seized power in a bloodless coup. A provisional constitution was sent to King Prajadhipok along with an ultimatum from Party leaders. On 26 June, the King met the Party leaders and refused to sign the charter. The next day, the King met the leaders again and signed the charter. The Peoples Party (Thai: คณะราษฎร์) was a coalition of Thai civil servants, princes, and military officials that led a successful 1932 coup that overthrew the absolute monarchy of King Prajadhipok. ... A coup détat, or simply a coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government, usually done by a small group that just replaces the top power figures. ... His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII, royal name พระปกเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว Phra Pokklao Chaoyuhua) (November 8, 1893 - May 30, 1941) was the seventh king of the Chakri dynasty. ... (Redirected from 27 June) June 27 is the 178th day of the year (179th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 187 days remaining. ...

The People's Party leaders generally followed the British parliamentary structure for the temporary charter. However, there were key differences, particularly regarding the powers of the monarch. The Westminster system is a democratic system of government modelled after that of the United Kingdom system, as used in the Palace of Westminster, the location of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. ...

The charter began by stating that sovereign power belongs to the people of Siam.^[4] Empowered to exercise power on behalf of the people were the People's Assembly (the legislature), a 15-member People's Committee (the executive), the courts of law (the judiciary), and the monarch. Members of the People's Assembly and the People's Committee were initially appointed. After 10 years or after half the population had completed primary education, the Assembly would be completely elected.^[5][6] Sovereignty is the exclusive right to exercise supreme political (e. ... For the country formerly called Siam see Thailand SIAM is an acronym for Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. ... A legislature is a type of representative deliberative assembly with the power to adopt laws. ... In law, the judiciary or judicature is the system of courts which administer justice in the name of the sovereign or state, and provide a mechanism for the resolution of disputes. ... Primary or elementary education consists of the first years of formal, structured education that occurs during childhood. ...

The monarch was not held to be infallible. He had a limited degree of sovereign immunity: although he cold not be prosecuted in an ordinary court of law, the Assembly could impeach and try him. The monarch did not have the right to grant pardons. This article needs to be cleaned up to conform to a higher standard of quality. ... Sovereign immunity or crown immunity is a type of immunity that, in common law jurisdictions traces its origins from early English law. ... Depiction of the impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson, then President of the United States, in 1868. ... A pardon is the forgiveness of a crime and the penalty associated with it. ...

Several other features would be mirrored in later constitutions. The monarch would not have an absolute veto - any law sent back to the Assembly, which could approve it with a simple majority. The charter followed the 1924 Palace Law with regards to succession - however, the Assembly reserved the right to formally approve the successor. The word veto comes from Latin and literally means I forbid. ... A simple majority is the most common requirement in voting for a measure to pass, especially in deliberative bodies and small organizations. ... The 1924 Palace Law of Succession (Thai: กฏมณเฑียรบาลว่าด้วยการสืบราชสันตติวงศ์ พ.ศ. 2467) governs succession over the Throne of the Kingdom of Thailand. ... An order of succession is a formula or algorithm that determines who inherits an office upon the death, resignation, or removal of its current occupant. ...

In practice, the People's Party made many concessions to the palace in putting together the new government. The Premiership and the Foreign Ministry were given to 2 hard-line royalists: Phraya Manopakorn Nitithada and Phraya Srivisan Vacha. A total of 4 members of the People's Committee were royalists who were not part of the People's Party.^[4] Of the 70 members of the legislature, less than half came from the People's Party, while the majority were high-ranking officials of the old regime.^[6] Phraya Manopakorn Nititada (Thai พระยามโนปกรณ์นิติธาดา) Kon Hutasingha(Thai ก้อน หุตะสิงห์)(July 15, 1884-October 1, 1948) was Thailands first Prime Minister from (1932-1933). ...

Despite this, the charter provoked fierce resistance from the palace. The new government reduced the palace budget and passed a taxation law that burdened the Kingdom's largest landowners, who were mostly nobles. In September 1932, a senior prince threatened the King's abdication if a permanent constitution did not grant the palace greater power.^[7] Look up abdication in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ...

The 1932 Constitution

The People's Party, facing an internal power struggle and opposition from the King, promulgated a permanent constitution in 10 December 1932 that gave the monarchy a significant increase in authority compared to the temporary charter. The day is currently celebrated as Constitution Day. December 10 is the 344th day (345th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1932 (MCMXXXII) was a leap year starting on Friday (the link will take you to a full 1932 calendar). ...

The constitution continued to state that sovereign power belonged to the people of Siam. However, unlike the temporary charter, the monarchy would now be the direct exerciser of that power, rather than the branches of government. This royal power would be exercized by and with the advise and consent of the People's Assembly, the State Council (the cabinet), and the Courts. However, the monarchy lacked any say in the composition of any of the branches of government and the royal veto could still be overruled. The monarchy was also made "sacred and inviolable", in contrast to the temporary charter.^[4] Sovereignty is the exclusive right to exercise supreme political (e. ... For the country formerly called Siam see Thailand SIAM is an acronym for Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. ...

After the new Constitution was promulgated, a new 20-person Cabinet was formed; 10 of whom came from the People's Party. On 7 January 1933, the Nationalist Party (Thai: คณะชาติ) was officially registered, with Luang Vichitvadakan, Phraya Thonawanikmontri, and Phraya Senasongkhram as leaders; the People's Party had been officially registered in August 1932.^[6] January 7 is the seventh day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1933 (MCMXXXIII) was a common year starting on Sunday (link will take you to calendar). ...

Demands for constitutional reform

On 31 January 1933, the King sent a letter to the Premier requesting that all political parties be established. On 14 April, the Premier disbanded the People's Party. He later adjourned the legislature and reshuffled the leadership of the Army, giving leadership to Phraya Phichaisongkhram and Phraya Sri Sithi Songkhram, both leaders during the absolute monarchy. On 20 June, the remnants of the People's Party military faction seized power and reinstated the legislature.^[6]

In August 1933, the government began registering candidates for village representatives who would cast votes in indirect legislative elections. It also started registering candidates for the legislature. Elections in some provinces started in October, but most were held in November.

During the midst of the elections, in October 1933, royalist factions led by Prince Boworadej and Phraya Sri Sitthi Songkhram led a rebellion against the government. After two weeks of violent fighting, during which Bangkok was bombed and Sri Sitthi Songkhram was killed, the People's Party defeated the rebels. Prince Boworadej fled abroad. Prince King Prajadhipok, who claimed neutrality during the conflict, fled to England a few weeks after the defeat. His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII, royal name พระปกเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว Phra Pokklao Chaoyuhua) (November 8, 1893 - May 30, 1941) was the seventh king of the Chakri dynasty. ...

From London, the King issued an ultimatum: in exchange for his return, and the legitimacy it lended to the People's Party, the King demanded several constitutional reforms. This included the right to select half of the legislature, control over the royal budget, and veto power that could be overridden only by a 3/4's majority of the legislature. The King also demanded the right to try capital cases, in this case, to free rebel soldiers. At the time, the New York Times reported that the King also threatened to sell the throne's substantial assets, including land, palaces, and the Emerald Buddha.^[8] The People's Party rejected the ultimatum, and in March 1935, Prajadhipok abdicated. The New York Times is an internationally known daily newspaper published in New York City and distributed in the United States and many other nations worldwide. ... Emerald Buddha The Emerald Buddha (Thai พระแก้วมรกต - Phra Kaew Morakot, or official name พระพุทธมหามณีรัตนปฏิมากร - Phra Bhuddha Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn) is the palladium of the Kingdom of Thailand, a figurine of the sitting Buddha, made of green jade (rather than emerald), clothed in gold, and about 45 cm tall. ...

Democratic elections for half of the People's Assembly were first held in November 1937.^[5] Women had the right to vote and stand for elections. Universal suffrage (also general suffrage or common suffrage) consists of the extension of suffrage to all adults, without distinction as to race, sex, belief, or social status. ...

The 1946 Constitution

After the end of the WWII, the collaborationist leadership (including Marshal Plaek) was arrested and tried for war crimes, democratic elections for the entire People's Assembly were first held, and the young King Ananda Mahidol returned to Thailand for the first time in 7 years. King Ananda Mahidol had just come of age, turning 20 in September 1945, and returned with his mother and Prince Bhumibol in December 1945. German soldiers at the Battle of Stalingrad World War II was the most extensive and costly armed conflict in the history of the world, involving the great majority of the worlds nations, being fought simultaneously in several major theatres, and costing tens of millions of lives. ... Collaborationism, as a pejorative term, can describe the treason of cooperating with enemy forces occupying ones country. ... In the context of war, a war crime is a punishable offense under International Law, for violations of the laws of war by any person or persons, military or civilian. ... King Ananda Mahidol or Rama VIII (long royal name: Phrabat Somdej Phra Paramenthara Maha Ananda Mahidol Phra Athama Ramathibodinthra พระบาทสมเด็จพระปรเมนทรมหาอานันทมหิดล พระอัฐมรามาธิบดินทร (roughly HM King Ananda Mahidol, the Eighth Ruler) (September 20, 1925 - June 9, 1946) was the eighth king of the Chakri dynasty of Thailand. ... Sangwal is a given name in Thailand for females. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since...

A new constitution was drafted in his honor. One key difference with previous constitutions was that the House of Representatives would, for the first time, be fully elected by the people. A Senate was also established, which would, unlike the British House of Lords, be elected by the House for 6 year terms. In addition, active civil servants and soliders were banned from serving in the Parliament or Cabinet, thus reducing the power of the military. A ban on senior princes from participating in electoral politics was repealed, thus precluding only the King and 4 other people from politics. This article is about the British House of Lords. ...

The Constitution was promulgated in 9 May 1946. One month later, in 9 June 1946, the King was found shot to death. May 9 is the 129th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (130th in leap years). ... 1946 (MCMXLVI) was a common year starting on Tuesday. ... June 9 is the 160th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (161st in leap years), with 205 days remaining. ... 1946 (MCMXLVI) was a common year starting on Tuesday. ...

The 1947 Charter

The military overthrew the elected government of Admiral Thamrong Navasavat in 8 November 1947, amid the political chaos that followed the official finding that the mysterious death of King Ananda Mahidol was not due to suicide. The coup restored power to Marshal Plaek, and was supported by Phin Choonhavan, Seni Pramoj, and the palace. The coup leaders alleged that government corruption had demeaned the sacredness of King Ananda's 1946 Constitution, as proven by the appearance of vultures at the royal cremation ground. Vultures had also appeared in Ayutthaya before it fell to the Burmese, and this was used as justification for the military's coup.^[9] A coup détat, or simply a coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government, usually done by a small group that just replaces the top power figures. ... Rear Admiral Thawal Thamrong Navaswadhi (also spelled as Thawal Thamrongnavasawat) (November 21, 1901— December 3, 1988) was the 8th prime minister of Thailand from 1946-1947 Categories: | | | | ... November 8 is the 312th day of the year (313th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 53 days remaining. ... King Ananda Mahidol or Rama VIII (long royal name: Phrabat Somdej Phra Paramenthara Maha Ananda Mahidol Phra Athama Ramathibodinthra พระบาทสมเด็จพระปรเมนทรมหาอานันทมหิดล พระอัฐมรามาธิบดินทร (roughly HM King Ananda Mahidol, the Eighth Ruler) (September 20, 1925 - June 9, 1946) was the eighth king of the Chakri dynasty of Thailand. ... King Ananda Mahidol or Rama VIII (long royal name: Phrabat Somdej Phra Paramenthara Maha Ananda Mahidol Phra Athama Ramathibodinthra พระบาทสมเด็จพระปรเมนทรมหาอานันทมหิดล พระอัฐมรามาธิบดินทร (roughly HM King Ananda Mahidol, the Eighth Ruler) (September 20, 1925 - June 9, 1946) was the eighth king of the Chakri dynasty of Thailand. ... Field Marshal Phin Choonhavan was a Thai military leader. ... Seni Pramoj in 1948 Mom Rajawongse Seni Pramoj (May 20, 1905 - July 28, 1997), (Thai เสนีย์ ปราโมช) was a Thai politician and three times prime minister. ... Sanam Luang Sanam Luang (Thai : สนามหลวง) is an open field in front of the Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. ... Ayutthaya (also spelled Ayudhya or Ayuthia) refers to The old capital of Thailand, see Ayutthaya (city) The province around the city, Ayutthaya province The ruins of the old palace, see Ayutthaya historical park Ayutthaya kingdom as the period of Thai history (1365-1768) in which Ayutthaya was capital This is...

The Regent, Prince Rangsit officially accepted the coup within 24 hours and immediately promulated the new charter the coup leaders had drafted.^[10] The King, who at the time was studying in Lausanne, endorsed the coup and the Charter on 25 November, noting "Those who were involved in this operation do not desire power for their own good, but aim only to strengthen the new government which will administer for the prosperity of the nation and for the elimination of all the ills suffered presently."^[11] HRH Rangsit Prayurasakdi, Prince of Jainad or Somdej Phra Chao Boromawongse Ther Krom Phraya Jainad Narendhorn (Thai: )(November 12, 1885 - March 7, 1951) was the Thai Founder of the Public Health Ministry and Prince Regent. ... Lausanne is a city in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva (French: Lac Léman), and facing Évian-les-Bains (France) and with the Jura hills to its north. ... November 25 is the 329th (in leap years the 330th) day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ...

The new charter gave the palace a persistent demand: a permanent Supreme State Council to advise the monarch and handle his personal affairs. The Council would be composed of 5 members, appointed by the monarch and acting as a regency council in his absense.

A monarch-appointed Senate was established, and, with 100 members, equal in size to the House of Representatives. Like previous Constitutions, the monarch still did not have a absolute veto. However, the monarch-appointed Senate could, through a simple majority over the combined houses of Parliament, sustain a royal veto. The ban on civil servants and soldiers from serving in Parliament and the Cabinet was removed. Another key change stated that the policies of one government could not be altered by a succeeding government without royal approval. The palace was also given increased control over its own operations, including the Royal Household, the Privy Purse, and the Royal Guards. The King was given several emergency prerogatives, such as the ability to declare war and martial law. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs a declaration of war against the Empire of Japan on December 8, 1941, one day after the attack on Pearl Harbor. ... Martial law is the system of rules that takes effect (usually after a formal declaration) when a military authority takes control of the normal administration of justice. ...

Surprisingly, the palace rejected the slate of Senate appointees proposed by the military. It instead filled the Senate with princes, nobles, and palace-friendly businessmen, leaving only 8 appointees from the military's slate. With control over palace operations, the palace purged nearly 60 officials, clearing out earlier appointees from previous governments.^[12]

Khuang Aphaiwong was appointed Prime Minister, and it was agreed that a new constitution would be drafted following House elections, which occured on 29 January 1948. The Seni Pramoj and Khuang Aphaiwong-led Democrats won a majority and appointed a Cabinet packed with palace allies. Tension between the military and the palace increased, until in April, a group of generals met with Khuang and Prince Rangsit, successfully demanding that Khuang resign and Marshal Plaek be appointed Premier. This article is part of or related to the Liberalism series Categories: Politics stubs | Liberal related stubs | Liberal parties | Thai political parties ...

The 1949 Constitution

The Constitution of 1949 was promulgated on 23 January 1949, a permanent instrument to replace the temporary 1948 Charter. The drafting committee was headed by Seni Pramoj and dominated by royalists under the direction of Prince Rangsit and Prince Dhani.^[4] Seni Pramoj in 1948 Mom Rajawongse Seni Pramoj (May 20, 1905 - July 28, 1997), (Thai เสนีย์ ปราโมช) was a Thai politician and three times prime minister. ... HRH Rangsit Prayurasakdi, Prince of Jainad or Somdej Phra Chao Boromawongse Ther Krom Phraya Jainad Narendhorn (Thai: )(November 12, 1885 - March 7, 1951) was the Thai Founder of the Public Health Ministry and Prince Regent. ...

The 1949 Constitution elevated the throne to its most powerful position since the 1932 overthrow of the absolute monarchy.^[4] The Supreme Council of State was transformed into a 9-person Privy Council. For the first time, members this council would be selected by the King alone. A 100-member Senate would also be selected by the King alone. The President of the Privy Council, rather than the Prime Minister, would countersign all laws. The King's veto was strengthened, with a 2/3's vote of Parliament required to overrule it. The Siamese coup detat on June 24, 1932 marked the bloodless transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy in Thailand. ... The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ...

The King could issue his own decrees with equal authority to the government. The King also gained the power to call for a plebiscite - the ability to amend the constitution via public referendum, bypassing Parliament and the Government. At succession, the Privy Council would name an heir - not the Parliament. A referendum (plural: referendums or referenda) or plebiscite is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal. ...

The 1952 Constitution

On 29 November 1951, as the King was returning to Thailand from Switzerland via ship, the military seized power from Privy Council President Dhani, abrogated the 1949 Constitution, and appointed Marshal Plaek as regent. A single 123-member National Assembly was appointed, 103 of which were from the military or police. November 29 is the 333rd (in leap years the 334th) day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1951 (MCMLI) was a common year starting on Monday; see its calendar. ...

The Assembly drafted a constitution that was practically identical to the 1932 Constitution - the only difference being the usage of a Privy Council rather than a Supreme Council of State. After much confrontation between the government and the palace in early 1952, the King promulgated the Constitution unchanged in 8 March 1952.^[4] Democratic elections were held for half of the legislature, while nearly all the appointed parliamentary members were army officers.^[13] Legislative elections were held again in February 1957.

The 1959 Charter

On the evening of 16 September 1957, General Sarit Dhanarajata seized power from the government of Marshal Plaek (for additional information on the King's role in the coup, see Bhumibol Adulyadej's role in Thai politics). Sarit abrogated the 1952 Constitution, abolished the National Assembly, declared martial law, and ruled via a Revolutionary Council. Sarit and his successors deified the throne and relied on royal sponsorship to legitimize their dictatorship. A temporary charter was promulgated in February 1959 which remained in place for 9 years, even after Sarit's death in 1964. September 16 is the 259th day of the year (260th in leap years). ... 1957 (MCMLVII) was a common year starting on Tuesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Field Marshal Sarit Dhanarajata (Thai: สฤษดิ์ ธนะรัชต์, pronounced, and also sometimes spelled, as Sarit Thanarat) (June 16, 1908 - December 8, 1963) staged a coup in 1957 and served as Thailands dictator until his death in 1963. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... A dictatorship is a autocratic form of government in which the government is ruled by a dictator. ...

The 1968 Constitution

General Thanom Kittikachorn suceeded Sarit as dictator of Thailand, ruling amid a rising communist insurgency in Thailand and an escalating US presence in Indochina. The United States provided the Thai government with a billion US dollars in aid, but corruption was rampant.^[4] During a trip by King Bhumibol to the US, The American anti-war movement pressured the US government to reduce its support for the regime. Thanom Kittikachorn Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn (August 11, 1912 -June 16, 2004, Thai ถนอม กิตติขจร) was a Thai military leader and former prime minister of Thailand. ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... Combatants Republic of Vietnam United States Republic of Korea Thailand Australia New Zealand The Philippines Democratic Republic of Vietnam National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam People’s Republic of China Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea Strength ~1,200,000 (1968) ~520,000 (1968) Casualties South Vietnamese dead... Indochina, or the Indochinese Peninsula, is a region in Southeast Asia. ... Official Development Assistance (ODA) is a category of development aid. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... Children run down a road near Trang Bang after an ARVN napalm attack on villages suspected of harboring National Liberation Front fighters in this June, 1972 photo by Huynh Cong Ut, which became a symbol of the international movement against U.S. involvement in Vietnam. ...

Despite resistance from Thanom, a new constitution was promulgated in 20 June 1968. Although democratic on the surface, the 1968 Constitution legitimized Thanom's military-dominated regime. A bicameral Parliament was established, with an elected 219-member House and a royally-appointed 164-member Senate. Contrary to the principles of parliamentary democracy, members of the House were banned from serving in the Cabinet. In addition, the Senate had the power to delay any legislation for up to a year, and the Senate President was the Parliament President. King Bhumibol approved Thanom's entire slate of mostly military Senate nominees. The new constitution also validated all legislation previously made by the regime, including the sweeping Anticommunist Act used to repress dissent. Thanom Kittikachorn Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn (August 11, 1912 -June 16, 2004, Thai ถนอม กิตติขจร) was a Thai military leader and former prime minister of Thailand. ... June 20 is the 171st day of the year (172nd in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 194 days remaining. ... 1968 (MCMLXVIII) was a leap year starting on Monday (the link is to a full 1968 calendar). ... A parliamentary system, or parliamentarism, is distinguished by the executive branch of government being dependent on the direct or indirect support of the parliament, often expressed through a vote of confidence. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since...

In February 1969, the first democratic elections in over a decade were held, resulting in parties aligned with Thanom winning a majority in the House.

The 1972 Temporary Charter

Amid rising social and political conflict, in 17 November 1971 Thanom Kittikachorn and his deputy Praphas Charusathien overthrew their own government, dissolving Parliament and the Cabinet, declaring martial law, abrogating the Constitution, and running the Kingdom through a National Executive Council. Thanom made himself Premier, Supreme Commander, and Foreign Minister. Praphas made himself deputy Premier, Interior Minister, Chief of Police, Army Commander, and head of the Communist Suppression Operations Command. Declaring the coup on television, Thanom opened a letter of approval from the King presented on a gold tray.^[14] 17 November is also the name of a Marxist group in Greece, coinciding with the anniversary of the Athens Polytechnic uprising. ... 1971 (MCMLXXI) was a common year starting on Friday (the link is to a full 1971 calendar). ... The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) is a unit of the Thai military devoted to national security issues. ...

Massive protests and strikes resulted, along with a recession and high inflation. A disastrous offensive against the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) was launched. As tensions reached a boiling point in December 1972, Thanom drafted a new charter. As in 1968, it reinforced the power of the military regime, establishing a wholly-appointed 299-member National Legislative Assembly, 200 of which were the military and police, with the remaining 100 civilians. The executive retained strong control over the legislature. A recession is usually defined in macroeconomics as a fall of a countrys real Gross Domestic Product in two or more successive quarters of a year. ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ...

The 1974 Constitution

Thanom's interim charter failed to stem opposition to the "Three Tyrants." On 13 October 1973, a massive 400,000 person protest took place at the Democracy Monument. The exact circumstances of 13 and 14 October remain controversial to this day.^[15] Late in the afternoon, King Bhumibol summoned Thanom and Praphas to the Palace, where they agreed to draft a new constitution within 12 months. As demonstrators dispersed that evening and in the next morning, the police and army began shooting at the remaining demonstrators, killing at least 70. Narong Kittikachorn personally shot into the crowds from a helicopter.^[4] Amid the chaos, Thanom and Praphas resigned from their political appointments, but continued to lead the military. They ordered more troops to confront the remaining demonstrators, but were blocked by Krit Srivara, Army Deputy Commander. Thanom and Narong then resigned from their military positions. The King appointed Sanya Dhammasakdi, Privy Councilor, as Premier. October 13 is the 286th day of the year (287th in leap years). ... 1973 (MCMLXXIII) was a common year starting on Monday. ... The Democracy Monument, Bangkok The Democracy Monument (in Thai: Anusawari Prachathipatai) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... Chitralada Palace (Thai: ) ( ) It is a Bangkok residence of Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit. ... General Krit Srivara (Thai: กฤษ ศรีวรา) was a military officer of the Royal Thai Army, who served as Deputy Army Commander prior to the violent crackdown on democracy protestors on 14 October 1973 and was later promoted to Army Commander. ... Sanya Dharmasakti (Thai สัญญา ธรรมศักดิ์, 5 April 1907 - 6 January 2002) was the 12th Prime Minister of Thailand. ...

Sanya appointed a constitution drafting committee consisting of Justice Minister Prakob Hutasing, Kukrit Pramoj, and a number of academics. They produced a first draft by 8 January 1974. Sanya Dharmasakti (Thai สัญญา ธรรมศักดิ์, 5 April 1907 - 6 January 2002) was the 12th Prime Minister of Thailand. ... Maj. ... January 8 is the 8th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1974 (MCMLXXIV) was a common year starting on Tuesday. ...

There were concerns that the Thanom-appointed Parliament would be inappropriate for approving the draft. The King suggested a royally-appointed 2,347-person group, who would appoint a 299-person committee, who would nominate a 100-person Convention to scrutinize the draft.

The first draft of the drafting committee swung the balance of power to an elected legislature for the first time since 1946. The draft called for an elected House which would in turn choose a Senate. A simple majority could override the royal veto. Cabinet members had to be MPs. In an unprecedented move, the drafters required a popular referendum on the draft prior to the King's approval. A referendum (plural: referendums or referenda) or plebiscite (from Latin plebiscita, a decree of the Concilium Plebis) is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal. ...

The draft faced staunch opposition by royalist members of the Convention, led by Kasem Chatikavanich. A new draft was demanded, granting the executive greater power and increasing royal powers to the level granted by the 1949 Constitution. The monarch would appoint a Senate with the countersign of the Privy Council President. The royal veto could be overriden only with a 2/3's majority of the combined Parliament. Furthermore, the Senate could kill any laws by not voting on them for 6 months. Civil servants and soldiers could not become MPs, but could form up to half of the Cabinet. The new draft would not require approval by a public referendum. Kasem Chatikavanich (popularly known as Super K) was the former Governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand and is the current Chairman of Bangkok Mass Transit System Company, the operator of the Bangkok Skytrain. ...

The palace added two clauses. First, in the absence of a prince, Parliament could select a princess as successor to the throne. The 1924 Palace Law on Succession banned female monarchs. Second, the Palace Law could be amended. Previous constitutions declared the law immutable.^[16] The 1924 Palace Law of Succession (Thai: กฏมณเฑียรบาลว่าด้วยการสืบราชสันตติวงศ์ พ.ศ. 2467) governs succession over the Throne of the Kingdom of Thailand. ... The 1924 Palace Law of Succession (Thai: กฏมณเฑียรบาลว่าด้วยการสืบราชสันตติวงศ์ พ.ศ. 2467) governs succession over the Throne of the Kingdom of Thailand. ...

The new draft was very different from the intentions of the drafting committee, and at one point, Sanya actually resigned from the Premiership, only to be pressured back into position. The new draft was approved by the Convention and promulgated in 7 October 1974. Legislative elections were held in January 1975, resulting in none of the 22 parties coming close to winning a majority. The Democrats, led by Seni Pramoj, formed a coalition government in February 1974. The coalition was highly unstable, and was replaced in less than amonth by a Social Action Party-led coalition which appointed Kukrit Pramoj as Premier. October 7 is the 280th day of the year (281st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1974 (MCMLXXIV) was a common year starting on Tuesday. ... Seni Pramoj in 1948 Mom Rajawongse Seni Pramoj (May 20, 1905 - July 28, 1997), (Thai เสนีย์ ปราโมช) was a Thai politician and three times prime minister. ... Maj. ...

The 1976 Constitution

Kukrit's coalition government was highly controversial, and governed amid escalating anti-leftist violence. Kukrit's own house was attacked and ransacked by police in August 1975. The palace was increasingly involved in the political maelstrom, and in January 1976, the military successfully demanded that Kukrit dissolve Parliament. Elections were scheduled on 14 April. The months leading up to the election were extremely violent.^[17] Seni Pramoj's Democrats won the most seats in the election, and formed a shaky coalition government. April 14 is the 104th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (105th in leap years). ...

Seni's government came under great pressure. A bill to extend elections to local levels was passed by Parliament 149-19, but the King refused to sign the bill or return it to Parliament, effectively vetoing it.^[18] As anti-leftist hysteria escalated, Praphas Charusathien returned shortly from exile to meet the King. Protesting student were attacked by Red Gaur paramilitary units. On 19 September 1976, Thanom returned and was immediately ordained as a monk at Wat Bovornives. Massive protests erupted. The King and Queen returned from a trip to the South to visit monk Thanom, leading Seni to resign from the Premiership in protest. His resignation was refused by Parliament, but initial attempts to reshuffle his Cabinet were blocked by the King.^[19] The political tension finally exploded in 6 October 1976, when Village Scouts and Red Gaur joined with military and police to rape and massacre at least 46 students protesting at Thammasat University.^[20] That evening, the military seized power and installed hard-line royalist Tanin Kraivixien as Premier. The Red Gaurs were a paramilitary anti-leftist death squad organization active in Thailand during the 1970s. ... Wat Bavornives Vihara (Bavornives Temple; Thai: ) is a major Buddhism temple in Bangkok, Thailand. ... October 6 is the 279th day of the year (280th in leap years). ... The Red Gaurs were a paramilitary anti-leftist death squad organization active in Thailand during the 1970s. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Tanin Kraivixien (born April 5, 1927 in Bangkok, Thai: ธานินทร์ กรัยวิเชียร) was prime minister of Thailand between 1976 and 1977. ...

The military coup was clearly endorsed by the King, who declared that it was "a manefestation of what the people clearly wanted."^[21]

The new constitution, promulgated on 1976, gave the Premier near absolute powers, including the power of summary justice. A royally-appointed National Assembly of bureaucrats and soldiers was stipulated. In addition, the King was granted a new prerogative, the power to introduce legislation directly into the assembly. Summary Justice refers to the informal punishment of suspected offenders without recourse to a formal trial under the legal system. ...

Tanin made criminal cases the jurisdiction of military tribunals and gave police sweeping powers to detain people without charges for up to 6 months. The penalty for lese-majeste was toughened and the law's scope was expanded.^[22] Dozens of people were charged.^[23] All protests were banned (although royal rallies were allowed), the media was strictly censored, and the police scoured homes and schools to confiscate blacklisted books. The communist insurgency escalated to nearly a full-scale war. Lese majesty or leze majesty (from the Latin Laesa maiestatis, injury to the Majesty) is the crime of violating majesty, an offense against the dignity of a reigning sovereign or against a state. ... Freedom of speech in Thailand is guaranteed in the articles 39, 40, 41 in the 1997 Constitution. ...

Symbolically, Tanin planned to renovate the Democracy Monument.^[4] The monument, built to commemorate the constitution and the overthrow of the absolute monarchy, consisted of a gold-painted constitution atop giant offering bowls, situated in the center of the historic section of Bangkok. Tanin wanted to replace the constitution with a huge statue of King Prajadhipok. Engineering challenges prevented this, so he instead placed the statue in front of Parliament. As for the Democracy Monument, the government planned to demolish it.^[24] The Democracy Monument, Bangkok The Democracy Monument (in Thai: Anusawari Prachathipatai) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. ... His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII, royal name พระปกเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว Phra Pokklao Chaoyuhua) (November 8, 1893 - May 30, 1941) was the seventh king of the Chakri dynasty. ...

The 1977 Charter

Tanin's dictatorship provoked harsh opposition, even from the military, who's slate of legislative appointees was largely rejected by Tanin. On 20 October 1977, the military, led by Kriangsak Chomanan, overthrew Tanin's government, drawing the King's opposition. However, he did end up consenting to the military's draft Charter. October 20 is the 293rd day of the year (294th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 72 days remaining. ... For the album by Ash, see 1977 (album). ... General Kriangsak Chomanan (17 December 1917-23 December 2003) served as prime minister of Thailand from 1977 to 1980. ...

The 1977 Charter created a unicameral appointed 360-member National Legislative Assembly, with more than 2/3's of the seats occupied by the military or police. The legislature was appointed by a National Policy Council, which appointed Kriangsak as Premier.

The new regime pledged a permanent constitution and elections in 1979. The National Policy Council appointed only 3 of its members to the Cabinet. Relations with communist China, Laos, and Vietnam were improved. This foreign policy, as well as reconciliary government policies, weakened the Communist Party of Thailand and greatly reduced domestic political tensions.

Kriangsak's government continued to be snubbed by the King. Deposed Premier Tanin was appointed to the King's Privy Council. Amnesty to protestors and students tried by the Tanin regime was denied for years. The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ...

The 1978 Constitution

Kriangsak drafted a more democratic constitution in 1978. The constitution established a bicameral National Assembly, consisting of an elected 301-member House of Representatives and an appointed 225-member Senate. The Premier, not the King, appointed the Senate, and the Senate could block House legislation concerning national security, the economy, the budget, and votes of no confidence. Most significantly, the Constitution created a transitory period, to end in 21 April 1983, after which military and civil servants would be banned from appointment to the Premiership and Cabinet. ...

House elections were held on schedule in April 1979, resulting in a coalition government which continued to appoint Kriangsak as Premier. The oil crisis later caused rampant inflation, leading to Kriangsak's resignation (without a dissolution of Parliament) in February 1980. A coalition government was formed that appointed Kriangsak's Defense Minister, Army Commander Prem Tinsulanonda as Premier. Oil crisis may refer to: 1973 oil crisis 1979 energy crisis 1990 spike in the price of oil Oil price increases of 2004 and 2005 Hubbert peak theory Energy crisis This is a disambiguation page: a list of articles associated with the same title. ... General Prem Tinsulanonda (Thai: เปรม ติณสูลานนท์, born August 26, 1920) is a Thai military and prime minister from 1980 till 1988. ...

Prem ruled for another 8 years, never once running in an election. He retained power despite several military coups with strong palace support.

In early 1983, facing the end of the constitutional transitory period in 21 April, after which he would be banned from appointment to the Premiership, Prem planned to amend the Constitution to make the transitory period permanent. Prem's aid, Pichit Kullavanich, hinted at a military coup if the amendment was not ratified.^[25] The amendment faced harsh public opposition while the military itself was distracted by internal conflicts^[26], leading to the failure of the amendment its 3rd reading on 16 March.

On 19 March 1983, Prem dissolved Parliament and scheduled House elections on 18 April. The new government would thus be formed under the transitory clauses, allowing Prem to continue as Premier for up to 4 more years. Prem's plan was successful and allowed him to consolidate his power base. Prem noted that "The armed forces will play an important role in the defense of the country, national independence, and the democratic system under the monarchy."^[27]

Parliament revolted again in 1986, prompting Prem to dissolve Parliament and schedule House elections in 27 July. The Democrats campaigned against Prem's domination and managed to win the most seats. But the government coalition they formed still reappointed Prem as Premier.^[28] Later, Prem's became accused of using the King's name and the military's strength as the means to retain power.^[29] 1986 (MCMLXXXVI) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... July 27 is the 208th day (209th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 157 days remaining. ...

Prem was finally brought down by a series of corruption scandals^[30] and the humiliating defeat of Thai troops in a border skirmish with Laos. Parliament was dissolved and House elections scheduled for 24 July 1988, with Prem again not standing for election. As in 1986, the election resulted in no single party winning enough seats to govern without a coalition. Thousands protested in front of Prem's house against the prospect of an unelected Premier, until Prem finally announced that he would not accept the Premiership.^[31] The Chart Thai party, led by General Chatichai Choonhavan, won the most seats in the election, and Chatichai became the new Premier. Chart Thai Party (พรรคชาติไทย phak chaat thai), also translated as the Thai Nation Party, is a conservative political party in Thailand. ... General Chatichai Choonhavan (5 April 1920—6 May 1998) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1988–1991. ... General Chatichai Choonhavan (5 April 1920—6 May 1998) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1988–1991. ...

The 1991 constitutions

In 23 February 1991, Army Commander Suchinda Kraprayoon led the military in seizing power from the Chatichai government, abrogating the 1978 Constitution, and replacing it with a temprary charter.^[4] Calling themselves the National Peace Keeping Council (NPKC), the coupmakers appointed a new National Assembly of 292 military officers and supporters, headed by Ukrit Mongkolnavin. Ukrit and appointed Premier Anand Panyarachun were tasked with drafting a permanent constitution. February 23 is the 54th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1991 (MCMXCI) was a common year starting on Tuesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Suchinda Kraprayoon was Prime Minister of Thailand from 7 April 1992 until 24 May 1992. ... General Chatichai Choonhavan (5 April 1920—6 May 1998) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1988–1991. ... The National Peace Keeping Council (NPKC, Thai: คณะรักษาความสงบเรียบร้อยแห่งชาติ) was a Thai military junta that overthrew the the civilian elected government of Chatichai Choonhavan in 1991. ... Anand Panyarachun (born August 9, 1932) was Thailands Prime Minister twice, between 1991-1992 and once again in 1992. ...

The drafting of a new constitution became a virtual battleground between the military and its opponents. The military favored a position of continued strength for the military, a larger and more powerful NPKC-appointed Senate with power over an elected House, a larger Privy Council, and the ability for non-elected officials to become cabinet members. This last clause allowed an acting military leader to become Premier. The public mobilized to fight the draft, with 50,000 people protesting at Sanam Luang on 19 November 1991, the largest protest in Thailand since 1976. The King intervened in his 4 December birthday speech, urging the public to accept the draft and noting that "procedures or principles that we have imported for use are sometimes not suitable to the conditions of Thailand or the character of Thai people."^[32][4] The constitution allowed for the appointment of Suchinda Kraprayoon, which led to a violent public uprising in May 1992 that brought down the government. The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... Sanam Luang Sanam Luang (Thai : สนามหลวง) is an open field in front of the Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. ... November 19 is the 323rd day of the year (324th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1991 (MCMXCI) was a common year starting on Tuesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... 1976 (MCMLXXVI) was a leap year starting on Thursday. ... December 4 is the 338th day (339th on leap years) of the Gregorian calendar. ... Suchinda Kraprayoon was Prime Minister of Thailand from 7 April 1992 until 24 May 1992. ...

The 1997 Constitution

The 1997 Constitution was widely hailed as a landmark in democratic political reform. Promulgated in 11 October 1997, it was the first constitution to be drafted by a Constitutional Drafting Assembly selected by popular election, and hence was popularly called the "People's Constitution".^[33] It replaced the 1991 Constitution. October 11 is the 284th day of the year (285th in leap years). ... 1997 (MCMXCVII) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

The constitution drafting process

A public uprising against the military-dominated government that arose due to the 1991 Constitution provoked public calls for a more accountable system of government.^[2] In June 1994, the Committee of Democracy Development of the House of Representatives was established during the government of Chuan Leekpai. Chuan was forced to establish the Committee following a hunger strike by prominent activist Chalard Vorachat. The Committee, headed by academic Prawes Wasi, amended the 1991 Constitution but was unable to push through further reform. However, it did identify many basic frameworks which would become influential for subsequent political change.^[34] After the collapse of the Chuan government, the 1995-1996 government of Banharn Silpa-archa established a Political Reform Committee which amended the Constitution again in 22 October 1996. Chuan Leekpai on the cover of Asiaweek magazine Chuan Leekpai (Thai: ชวน หลีกภัย, Chinese: 川呂沛; pinyin: Chuān Lǚpèi; born July 28, 1938 in Trang) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from September 23, 1992 to May 24, 1995 and again from November 9, 1997 to February 9, 2001. ...

The 1996 amendment called for the creation of an entirely new constitution by a special committee outside the National Assembly (that is, Parliament). The Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA) was formed with 99 members: seventy-six of them directly elected from province and 23 qualified persons short-listed by the Parliament from academia and other sources.^[35] Anand Panyarachun, PM in 1991 under the military regime, was elected as a member of the CDA and appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee. Political scientists and jurists Chai-Anan Samudavanija, Amorn Chantarasomboon, and Borwornsak Uwanno were key influencers of the draft. A process of public consultation took place on a nation-wide basis. Some clauses, particularly the requirement that all MP's hold bachelor degrees, the party list system, the Constitutional Court, and decentralisation, provoked strong criticism, particularly from smaller parties.^[35] The Asian Economic Crisis of 1997 increased public awareness about the need for reform, and is often cited as a major impetus for the constitution's successful promulgation.^[33] The draft was approved by the National Assembly with 518 votes for, 16 against and 17 abstentions.^[35] Anand Panyarachun (born August 9, 1932) was Thailands Prime Minister twice, between 1991-1992 and once again in 1992. ... Political science is an academic and research discipline that deals with the theory and practice of politics and the description and analysis of political systems and political behavior. ... A jurist is a professional who studies, develops, applies or otherwise deals with the law. ... Amorn Chantarasomboon (Thai: อมร จันทรสมบูรณ์) is a Thai expert on public law and constitutional law. ... Party lists are used in elections to legislatures which use Party-list proportional representation or additional member proportional representation to designate a partys nominees in the at-large portion of the vote. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... The Asian financial crisis was a financial crisis that started in July 1997 in Thailand, and affected currencies, stock markets, and other asset prices of several Asian countries, many part of the East Asian Tigers. ...

Key features

The 1997 Constitution has several innovations compared to previous constitutions, including

• Election reform.^[35] Voting was made compulsory in order to ensure a high-turn out and make vote buying so expensive as to be unfeasible. A mixed electoral system based on Germany's was adopted for the House of Representatives. 100 members of the House are elected from party lists, and the remaining 400 are elected from single-member constituencies. The proportional representation party list system was aimed at deterring vote-buying, strengthening the party system, and increasing the quality of candidates. The Senate became a non-partisan elected body. MPs were required to have a bachelor's degree. An independent Election Commission was established.
• Strengthening the executive branch.^[35] A 2/5's vote of the House is required for a vote of no confidence debate to be initiated against a Prime Minister. The motion must also contain the name of an alternative Premier to replace the incumbent. A successful vote of no confidence requires a majority of 1/2 of the House. A similar process can initiate a no confidence motion against an individual Minister but requires only 1/5'th of the signatures of the House members. These measures were aimed at increasing the stability of governments.^[36]
• Greater separation between the executive and legislative branches. MPs were forced to resign from the House in order to become Cabinet Ministers, unlike previous constitutions. Based on the principle of "individual ministerial responsibility and cabinet collective responsibility"^[37], this forced Ministers who had been successfully censured to become normal citizens rather than MPs. It also encouraged parties to put potential ministers on the party list rather than a particular constituency.
• Human rights. A plethora of human rights were explicitly recognized, including the right to free education, the rights of traditional communities, and the right and duty to peacefully protest coups and other extra-constitutional means of acquiring power.^[2] However, constitutional law expert Prinya Thaewanarumitkul claimed that the right to resist coups, for example by making barricades or blocking roads, would only protect people if the opposition to the coup was successful.^[38]
• Decentralization of government, including the establishment of elected Tambol Administrative Organizations (TAOs) and Provincial Administrative Organizations (PAOs). School administration was also decentralized, although opposition from teachers has delayed implementation of this reform
• Increased checks and balances, including new independent government agencies like the Constitutional Court, the Administrative Court, the Office of the Auditor-General, the National Counter Corruption Commission, the National Human Rights Commission, the Consumer’s Protection Organization, the Environmental Conservation Organization, and an Ombudsman.
• Criminal justice reforms, including a reduction in the police’s authority to conduct warrantless search, the right to prompt court arraignment within 48 hours of arrest, a more transparent bail procedure, and the right to counsel during police interrogations.^[33]

This entry is related to, but not included in the Elections and Voting series. ... The Additional Member System (AMS) is a voting system in which some representatives are elected from geographic constituencies and others are elected under proportional representation from party lists. ... Proportional representation (sometimes referred to as full representation, or PR), is an electoral system delivering a close match between the percentage of votes that the political parties obtain in elections and the percentage of seats they receive in legislative assemblies. ... Partisan may refer to: A member of a lightly-equipped irregular military force formed to oppose control of an area by a foreign power or by an army of occupation. ... The examples and perspective in this article or section may not represent a worldwide view. ... The Election Commission of Thailand is an independent government agency tasked with overseeing Senate, House, and district elections throughout the Kingdom of Thailand. ... A Motion of No Confidence, also called Motion of Non Confidence is a parliamentary motion traditionally put before a parliament by the opposition in the hope of defeating or embarrassing a government. ... A Motion of No Confidence, also called Motion of Non Confidence is a parliamentary motion traditionally put before a parliament by the opposition in the hope of defeating or embarrassing a government. ... Party lists are used in elections to legislatures which use Party-list proportional representation or additional member proportional representation to designate a partys nominees in the at-large portion of the vote. ... Human rights are rights which some hold to be inalienable and belonging to all humans. ... Free education is a policy stance in politics that ensures education for its citizens up to a certain level. ... Decentralisation (or decentralization) is any of various means of more widely distributing decision-making to bring it closer to the point of service or action. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... Human rights are rights which some hold to be inalienable and belonging to all humans. ... Consumer protection is government regulation to protect the interests of consumers, for example by requiring businesses to disclose detailed information about products, particularly in areas where safety or public health is an issue, such as food. ... The conservation movement is a political and social movement that seeks to protect natural resources including plant and animal species as well as their habitat for the future. ... An ombudsman is an official, usually (but not always) appointed by the government or by parliament, who is charged with representing the interests of the public by investigating and addressing complaints reported by individual citizens. ... A search warrant is a written warrant issued by a judge or magistrate which authorizes the police to conduct a search of a person or location for evidence of a criminal offense. ... Arraignment is a common law term for the formal reading of a criminal complaint, in the presence of the defendant, to inform him of the charges against him. ... The word bail as a legal term means: Security, usually a sum of money, exchanged for the release of an arrested person as a guarantee of that persons appearance for trial. ... The Right to a fair trial is an essential right in all countries respecting the rule of law. ... Interrogation is the method of interviewing a source used by police and military personnel to obtain information that the source would not otherwise willingly disclose. ...

Praise and criticism

The Constitution was highly praised for the participative process involved in its drafting, its enshrinement of human rights, and its significant advances in political reform.^[2] It was viewed as successful in fostering democratic development and increasing political stability.^[39] Its measures to politically empower and protect citizens were also praised.^[40] The new constitution was cited for its role in bringing down the Ministers of Public Health and Agriculture during corruption scandals in the government of Chuan Leekpai. There was also praise for the ease with which the constitution could be amended. Public faith in democracy in general and constitutional agencies like the Constitutional Court and the National Counter Corruption Commission is very high.^[5] However, there have been complaints that the government has sought to politicize the process of appointments to some independent agencies.^[41] Chuan Leekpai on the cover of Asiaweek magazine Chuan Leekpai (Thai: ชวน หลีกภัย, Chinese: 川呂沛; pinyin: Chuān Lǚpèi; born July 28, 1938 in Trang) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from September 23, 1992 to May 24, 1995 and again from November 9, 1997 to February 9, 2001. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ...

The January 2001 House elections, the first House elections contested under the 1997 Constitution, were called the most open, corruption-free election in Thai history.^[5] Political parties were effectively strengthened, and the effective number of parties in the legislature fell dramatically from an average of 6.2 before 1997 to 3.1 in 2001.^[42]

Most criticism was based on the perspective that the Constitution was too effective in some of its reforms. One of the members of the Drafting Committee, Amorn Chantarasomboon, claimed that an overly strong and stable government brought on a "tyranny of the majority" and a "parliamentary dictatorship."^[43] Independent agencies like the National Human Rights Commission and the National Counter Corruption Commission have also been criticized as weak and vulnerable to government and court challenges.^[40] In 2006, the Election Commissioners were jailed and the results of a House election overturned by the courts. Amorn Chantarasomboon (Thai: อมร จันทรสมบูรณ์) is a Thai expert on public law and constitutional law. ... The phrase elective dictatorship (also called executive dominance in political science) was coined by the former Lord Chancellor, Quintin Hogg, Baron Hailsham of St Marylebone, in an academic paper of the same name written in 1976. ...

The constitution was also criticized for the lack of clarity with which it defines the King's role in politics (see Royal powers and 2006 demand for royal intervention). The Senate's role in scrutinizing Constitutional Court appointments has come under much criticism (see Appointment of the first Constitutional Court). The Senate has been criticized as becoming increasingly partisan, with both pro- and anti- government factions being elected in the Senate elections of 2006.^[44][41] In House elections in April 2006, a constitutional crisis almost occurred when it appeared that the Parliament would not be able to convene within the constitutional time limit (see April 2006 House election results). Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... A constitutional crisis is a severe breakdown in the smooth operation of government. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ...

Although constitutional articles (specifically, article 80) committing the state the promoting equal rights between men and women, there was little progress in implementing specific laws to promote equality. In practice only around 10% of MPs and senators are female, and less than 6% of ministers.^[45] Only 8.9% of district officers and 2.6% of provincial governors are women.

The 2006 Interim Constitution

See also: September 2006 Thailand coup

Main article: 2006 Interim Constitution of Thailand

On the evening of 19 September 2006, less than a month before a nation-wide House election, the military led a bloodless coup against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, who was attending a United Nations summit in New York City at the time. The junta abrogated the Constitution, suspended the Parliament, declared martial law, banned protests and political activities of all types, censored the media, and jailed key members of the Cabinet. At first, the junta ruled by decree. Wikinews has news related to: Tanks surround government buildings in Bangkok The 2006 Thailand coup attempt is an attempted coup détat by members of the Royal Thai Army against the government of Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ... September 19 is the 262nd day of the year (263rd in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ... UN and U.N. redirect here. ... Nickname: Big Apple Location in the state of New York Coordinates: Country United States State New York Boroughs Bronx (The Bronx) New York (Manhattan) Queens (Queens) Kings (Brooklyn) Richmond (Staten Island) Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) Area    - City 1,214. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... Martial law is the system of rules that takes effect (usually after a formal declaration) when a military authority takes control of the normal administration of justice. ... In September 2006, following a lengthy political crisis in Thailand, members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup détat against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ... In September 2006, following a lengthy political crisis in Thailand, members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup détat against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ... In September 2006, following a lengthy political crisis in Thailand, members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup détat against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ...

There were few protests during the first week of the coup. Thanaphol Eiwsakul, editor of Fah Diew Kan magazine (which had been censored by the Thaksin government for lese-majeste), dismissed the legitimicy of the junta and urged the public to exercising their right to protest coups, as guaranteed by Article 65 of the 1997 Constitution. He vowed to stage a protest on Thursday, 21 September 2006.^[46] Lese majesty or leze majesty (from the Latin Laesa maiestatis, injury to the Majesty) is the crime of violating majesty, an offense against the dignity of a reigning sovereign or against a state. ...

The junta appointed a legal panel to draft an interim charter (later officially called a "constitution"). The team was led by led by former Senate speaker Meechai Ruchuphan, and originally included jurists Borwornsak Uwanno and Wissanu Krea-ngam. Both had played key roles in drafting the 1997 Constitution and had served under the deposed government, although they had resigned several months before the coup. Both resigned from the panel after public criticism that they were members of the ancien regime. Thammasat vice-rector Prinya Thewanaruemitkul harshly criticized the two, saying that they were "not honourable enough to look after the democratic system." Both refused to play any further role with the military junta.^[47][48]

A draft of the interim charter was released on 27 September 2006, to much criticism. Structurally, the draft interim charter was similar to the 1991 Constitution, the 1976 Constitution, and the 1959 Charter, in that it stipulated an extremely powerful executive branch which would appoint the entire legislature. The junta, which would be transformed into a Council for National Security (CNS), would control appointments to the executive branch.^[49] Major concerns included:

• The overwhelming power of the executive branch, particularly the Cabinet (appointed by a Premier who is in turn appointed by the junta) and the CNS. The CNS would also be allowed to take part in Cabinet meetings.
• The lack of democratic elections for seats in the legislature. Under charter article 5, a 250-member National Legislative Assembly would be directly selected by the junta. This effectively meant that there would be no checks and balances to the junta's legislative and executive powers.
• The lack of controls for the drafting of a permanent constitution. Under charter articles 19 and 21, the CNS would appoint a 2000-member National Assembly which would in 7 days have to select 200 of its members to be candidates for the Constitution Drafting Assembly. Under charter articles 22 and 24, the CNS would select 100 of those candidates for royal appointment to the Assembly; it would also select the Assembly head. The Assembly would then appoint 25 of its members as constitution writers, with the CNS directly appointing 10 writers. This process effectively gave the junta complete control over the permanent constitution.
• The lack of controls to prevent members of the CNS, its panels, or its committees from running in elections. Under charter article 30, only the head of the CNS is banned.
• The use of an old charter if the permanent constitution not completed by a CNS-set deadline. The specific charter to revert to was not specified - the CNS and the Cabinet would choose which of Thailand's 16 previous charters to use.
• The inability of the public to file written comments on the bills.^[50]

Banjerd Singkhaneti, of Thammasat University, noted of the process for drafting a permanent constitution, "I think it will be a mess and the next constitution will be just that." Charoen Khumpeeraparp, of Silpakorn University, criticized the charter for protecting human rights according to commitments made under international treaties, claiming that it would not allow persecution of figures in the deposed government. Charoen claimed that no other countries let international commitments influence their local laws.^[51] The doctrine and practice of dispersing political power and creating mutual accountability between political entities such as the courts, the president or prime minister, the legislature, and the citizens. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Silpakorn University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยศิลปากร) is a university located in Thailand. ...

However, the draft interim charter did call for one democratic innovation: it required that a permanent constitution would have to be ratified by public referendum. This innovation was suggested in the draft 1974 Constitution, but was rejected by the royally-appointed Constitutional Convention.

The interim charter was also criticized for being drafted without considering the views of the public. Meechai Ruchuphan, chief legal advisor for the junta, had earlier promised to heed opposing legal opinions. Komsan Phokong (Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University), Charoen Kampheeraphap (Silapakorn University), and Sasatra Toon (Rangsit University) had then sought and received the permission from the junta to present an alternative draft charter comprising 72 articles. "Meechai had promised to heed opposing legal opinions but failed to honour his word," Komsan said. Sasatra said Meechai acted as if he was trying to perpetuate the power of the junta.^[52]

The draft was promulgated unchanged on 1 October 2006. October 1 is the 274th day of the year (275th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Trivia

• Constitution in Thai (รัฐธรรมนูญ; ratha thama noon) can literally be translated as "rule of the state with dharma" or "charter for the rule of the state".

Dharma (Sanskrit धर्म) or Dhamma (Pāli) means Natural Law or Reality, and with respect to its significance for spirituality and religion might be considered the Way of the Higher Truths. ...

References

To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... HRH Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn of Thailand Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (born July 28, 1952) is the only son of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King (Rama IX) of Thailand, and Queen Sirikit. ... The 1924 Palace Law of Succession (Thai: กฏมณเฑียรบาลว่าด้วยการสืบราชสันตติวงศ์ พ.ศ. 2467) governs succession over the Throne of the Kingdom of Thailand. ... The Red Gaurs were a paramilitary anti-leftist death squad organization active in Thailand during the 1970s. ... Chart Thai Party (พรรคชาติไทย phak chaat thai), also translated as the Thai Nation Party, is a conservative political party in Thailand. ... Lese majesty or leze majesty (from the Latin Laesa maiestatis, injury to the Majesty) is the crime of violating majesty, an offense against the dignity of a reigning sovereign or against a state. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand, with her husband, King Rama IX Her Majesty Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara (born August 12, 1932), better known as Queen Sirikit of Thailand, is the wife and Queen Consort of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand. ... HRH Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn of Thailand Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (born July 28, 1952) is the only son of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King (Rama IX) of Thailand, and Queen Sirikit. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The Chakri dynasty have ruled Thailand since king Taksin was declared mad in 1782. ... Ayodhaya Names of Kings according to Pongsawadarnnue (Chronicle of the North) Prachao Prathumsuriyawong พระเจ้าปทุมสุริยวงศ์ Prachao Mahasamudsakorn พระเจ้ามหาสมุท&#3619... General Prem Tinsulanonda (Thai: เปรม ติณสูลานนท์, born August 26, 1920) is a Thai military and prime minister from 1980 till 1988. ... Lese majesty, leze majesty, or lèse majesté (from the Latin Laesa maiestatis, injury to the Majesty) is the crime of violating majesty, an offense against the dignity of a reigning sovereign or against a state. ... The Newsweek logo Newsweek is a weekly news magazine published in New York City and distributed throughout the United States and internationally. ... The Asian Wall Street Journal is a version of The Wall Street Journal that provides news and analysis of global business developments for an Asian audience. ... The Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (Thai:โรงเรียนนายร้อยพระจุลจอมเกล้า) is the military academy of the Thai army. ... The National Peace Keeping Council (NPKC, Thai: คณะรักษาความสงบเรียบร้อยแห่งชาติ) was a Thai military junta that overthrew the the civilian elected government of Chatichai Choonhavan in 1991. ... General Arthit Kamlangek was the former Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Army and the Supreme Commander of the Thai Armed Forces. ... The Red Gaurs were a paramilitary anti-leftist death squad organization active in Thailand during the 1970s. ... The word Maharaja (also spelled maharajah) is Hindi as well as ancient Sanskrit for high king (a karmadharaya from maha great and rajan king). Its use is primarily for Hindu potentates (ruler or sovereign). ... Mom Ratchawong Sukhumbhand Paripatra (born 1953) is a Thai politician and MP with the Democrat Party. ... Far Eastern Economic Reviews cover for September issue in 2005 Far Eastern Economic Review (Chinese: 遠東經濟評論) (also referred to as FEER) is an unique Asian news magazine written in the English language since it was founded and developed entirely in Asia. ... Far Eastern Economic Reviews cover for September issue in 2005 Far Eastern Economic Review (Chinese: 遠東經濟評論) (also referred to as FEER) is an unique Asian news magazine written in the English language since it was founded and developed entirely in Asia. ... Chirayu Isarangkul na Ayutthaya is the current Director-General of the Crown Property Bureau and a former Deputy Minister of Industry of Thailand. ... The Crown Property Bureau is a Thai non-government agency responsible for managing the personal assets of the King of Thailand and his immediate family. ... A privy council is a body that advises the head of state of a nation, especially in a monarchy. ...

See also

• Politics of Thailand
• Human rights in Thailand
• History of Thailand (1932-1973)
• History of Thailand since 1973
• Thailand political crisis 2005-2006
• Prajadhipok
• Bhumibol Adulyadej
• National Assembly of Thailand
• Constitutional Court of Thailand

Thailand had been ruled by kings since the 13th century. ... Human Rights in Thailand The constitution provides for freedom of speech, press, peaceful assembly and association, religion, and movement within the country and abroad. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... The history of Thailand since 1973 has been marked by a struggle to define the political contours of the state. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ... His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII, royal name พระปกเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว Phra Pokklao Chaoyuhua) (November 8, 1893 - May 30, 1941) was the seventh king of the Chakri dynasty. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ...

Further reading

• Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (the 1997 Constitution) In English
• Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (the 1997 Constitution) In Thai, from Thai Wikisource
• The 1991 Constitution
• King Prajadhipok's Institute, an independent academic organization dedicated to developing Thai democracy
• Andrew Harding, May there be Virtue: ‘New Asian Constitutionalism’ in Thailand, Microsoft Word format and HTML format
• Cabinet of the Royal Thai Government, History of Thai Prime Ministers
• Kobkua, Suwannathat-Pia, "Kings, Country and Constitutions: Thailand's Political Development 1932-2000", RoutledgeCurzon, ISBN 0-7007-1473-1