Klatham Party deputy leader Anudith Nakornthap said on Tuesday the government was trying to evade responsibility for the stalled effort to rewrite the charter despite having initiated the referendum process seen as a precursor to this.
Speaking after the government announced that it would not be asking parliament to reconsider drafts of an amended constitution that have lapsed following the dissolution of the previous House, Capt Anudith said the administration was attempting to shift the burden to the current parliament instead of carrying out its constitutional duty.
The government argued the previous drafts were controversial and should be resubmitted.
However, Capt Anudith said Section 158 of the charter clearly states the cabinet is responsible for administering the country in the best interests of the people and has a duty to propose legal amendments when laws become obstacles to justice or progress.
"The proposal of legislation is not an option, but a core duty of the government," he said, citing Sections 133 and 256 of the constitution, which empower the cabinet to initiate constitutional amendment motions before lawmakers or citizens.
He criticised the current charter, drafted during military rule, as a source of political conflict and an obstacle to national development.
More than 21 million voters approved holding a referendum on drafting a new constitution, he said, reflecting a clear public mandate for change.
"If the government is sincere with the people, it must take the lead," Capt Anudith said.
He called for amendments to Sections 256(3) and 256(6), which require support from at least one-third of senators, or 67 votes.
As long as such provisions remain, constitutional reform will remain dependent on senators, he said.
