Senate Reports Two-Year Achievements, Defends Independence
Thailand's Senate reported handling 32 bills, three royal decrees, and over 1,370 public complaints during its first two years, with leaders defending the body's independence and neutrality despite political scrutiny.
On July 7, 2569, at Parliament House, Senate President Mongkol Surasatyachai and Vice President Krienggrai Sriruksa announced the Senate's two-year performance achievements. Mongkol emphasized that presiding over sessions requires mindfulness, emotional control, and strict neutrality while ensuring all senators can voice opinions within procedural boundaries. He highlighted initiatives to make Parliament a "green chamber," increase public access, and promote democratic understanding among youth and citizens.
Monkol reported that the Senate processed 47 bills passed by the House of Representatives, with 32 becoming law, approved three royal decrees, and considered 54 petitions addressing public concerns directly affecting the nation's future through 443 separate motions. The Senate also carefully evaluated candidates for various constitutional positions based on ethics and morality principles.
"The Senate completed two years in unity despite differing opinions, which strengthen rather than divide us," Mongkol stated, emphasizing harmonious collaboration.
Vice President Krienggrai discussed the Senate's field outreach program, noting over 1,370 complaints received, with water resources, land disputes, and agriculture issues being most prevalent. These efforts involved coordinated responses from state agencies, local governments, private sector, civil society, and media to resolve public grievances and advance national development.
When asked about being labeled a "blue-shirt Senate," Mongkol clarified that the Senate prioritizes national and public interest while following constitutional and legal frameworks. He acknowledged that different perspectives are natural, noting that differing views should ultimately serve the public good.
