The NLA had a small debate about including the presidents of the lower and upper houses of Parliament and excluding the head of the judicial branch in the strategy committee but resolved to maintain the original stipulations.

NLA member Somchai Sawangkarn raised a concern whether the heads of the legislative branch could be trusted, giving the example of the previous elected Parliament’s passage of a blanket amnesty bill at 3am.

NLA member Jade Siratharanon said the committee should include all branches of government including the judiciary to ensure balance.

Borwornsak Uwanno, a member of the vetting committee, countered that including the heads of Parliament was essential because they would be elected by the people and should be part of the national strategy.

Regarding the exclusion of judges from the high courts, Bowornsak said some issues regarding national strategy would have to considered by the courts, implying that the judiciary’s inclusion on the committee would be redundant.

The NLA passed the draft in the third reading in a vote of 217 to zero with three abstentions after two hours of deliberation.

The NLA also passed the reform bill by 216 to zero with four abstentions after deliberations lasting one hour without major debate.

Key points in the National Strategy draft bill

– The bill has been written taking into account Article 65 of the 2017 Constitution, which requires the state to come up with a national strategy to set out a long-term goal for sustainable development based on good governance as well as providing an integrated framework for the country’s development plans.

– The National Strategy Committee is appointed, chaired by the prime minister. All top brass will sit along with representatives from other sectors in the committee of 35 members.

– The committee must create a national strategy, which is a common goal for all government agencies to pursue for at least 20 years.

– The National Strategy consists of the country’s vision, long-term goals, the assessment criteria or indicators, and strategies or master plans. The strategies or master plans must be in line with the national reform plans set under another the draft bill on national reforms.

– The National Strategy must be reviewed every five years by the committee and should be revised corresponding to the changing circumstances.

– The National Strategy binds all government agencies and officials legally. Those failing to accomplish the set goals or follow the plans will be subject to examination by the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

– During the five-year transitional period, the junta-appointed Senate will be responsible for ensuring that the government is obliged to report progress on the strategy to the Senate every quarter. It could face similar examinations for failing to comply with the strategy.

– There is a provisional chapter to kickstart the process.

– The National Strategy Committee must set up all the necessary panels to work on strategies for different areas within 30 days.

– All the committees must complete national strategies in all areas within 120 days after taking office.

– The strategy must be submitted to the Cabinet after an opinion-gathering process (within 45 days)

– The Cabinet must forward it to the National Legislative Assembly in 30 days.

– The NLA must pass it within 30 days before resubmitting it to the PM for seeking further royal endorsement.