The process of entering the position of senator

Abstract

             The objective of this research is to study the concept of parliamentary system as a legislative body under the democratic and sovereign power principles as well as relevant constitution provisions of the Kingdom of Thailand and foreign countries, in particular, in terms of the acquisition of a member of senate, the significant institute with key role in democracy with the bicameral system.

            According to study, it was found that Thai parliamentary system has been developed continuously, in particular, after the Siamese Revolution of 1932 until the parliamentary system was under the Democratic Form of Government with the King as Head of State. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, B.E. 2489 (1946) was promulgated as the first constitution version which required that a senator shall be elected from the election. It ensured the legitimacy of senate and the source of power as a representative of Thai people. Thailand constitutions in the past legislated the procedure of acquisition of senator differently in varied form. Some constitutions required the election of senator, some versions preferred the appointment of senator and some expected both election and selection.  

            The author argues that Thailand senate institute still has a significant role in politics and government. Certain constitutional provisions should be amended to empower the senate. However, the senator acquisition procedure should be taken into account to ensure that the procedure accords with the authorities. The relationship between the senate acquisition and people’s sovereign power under democracy system could be explained reasonably and truly.