Nikorn advised Theng, the opposition leader, to take responsibility for the people's hopes. He pointed out that electing members of the constitutional drafting assembly (CDA) risks violating the constitution and may trigger ethics complaints. He observed that parliament is delaying constitutional amendments to await the people's draft, likely pushing a new constitution beyond 2029.
At 11:00 a.m. on 22 June at the parliament, Nikorn Jamnong, party-list MP of Bhumjaithai Party and part of its constitutional working group, addressed the statement by Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, party-list MP and leader of the People’s Party, about amending the constitution to allow elections for the constitutional drafting assembly (CDA). Nikorn noted that discussions between two parliamentary committees and constitutional court judges indicated that this was an opinion of the judges, not a binding ruling from the court. Therefore, his previous statements were not misleading. He stressed that politicians leading the people must take responsibility. Submitting or approving constitutional amendments is a political act and a parliamentary duty that carries risks if done incorrectly. He added that on 23 June at 11:00 a.m., Bhumjaithai's legal team will further discuss whether to revise their amendment draft, but he personally expects they will stand by it as it reflects the people's hopes.
"I see that the People’s Party leader has consistently caused problems, from the MOUs to drafting Article 256 last time which was nearly completed but then he refused to accept it, causing the draft to be rejected, leading to parliament dissolution and sinking another ship, thus dashing the people's hopes. Being opposition leader is like captaining a large ship; he must be careful not to steer the ship carrying the people's hopes into danger, mindful of both risks and his own crew. Claims that elections can be 100% held still carry risks of violating the constitutional court's rulings. Before performing parliamentary duties, MPs must take an oath, which is a binding commitment to act correctly. This is the responsibility of a good captain to care for both passengers and crew. If he risks proceeding carelessly, complaints will arise—can he bear that responsibility?" Nikorn said.
When asked about parliament delaying consideration of constitutional amendment drafts to await the people's draft currently gathering signatures, Nikorn said it depends on the parliamentary coordination committee's discussions. However, he noted talks about waiting for the people's draft. From his perspective, waiting will delay the new constitution further. Originally, the first reading was scheduled for 7-8 July. Waiting for the people's draft means postponing until the next parliamentary session, because the people's draft process requires 30 days to verify signatures and about 45 days to gather public comments before parliament can consider it.
"If we wait, we must accept that the amendment process will be delayed another parliamentary session, pushing the constitution's completion from late 2029 by at least six months, plus another eight months for related laws. If delayed further, don't blame the government. We know drafts have been withdrawn for revisions, and last time it took three years with two to three failures, despite attempts to finish under former PM Srettha Thavisin's government. No one took responsibility; if it can't be done, don't blame the government—that's unfair. Don't politicize this; the constitution should not be a political tool. The 21 million people who voted in the referendum expect parliament to achieve the goal. Don't politicize or leave the people with broken hopes." Nikorn said.
Asked whether he expects dissenting views to lead to constitutional court interpretation requests, Nikorn said he believes this is certain, but this time there will also be ethics complaints. Therefore, he warned against rushing recklessly as it will cause the people following behind to hit a wall as well. He stressed that parliamentary duties require responsibility for public expectations and must be accomplished, not just performed for the sake of doing them.
"We will stand firm on what is feasible and lawful, and must consider the rule of law. The ship must be steered safely, not crashed and sunk. If anyone wants to do otherwise, let each party proceed separately. Once the votes are secured, submit and then debate in parliament. Don’t obstruct others based on personal beliefs. If direct CDA elections pose risks and problems, reject them. From now on, let each go their own way. The goal is the constitution, not to bring down others beside you." Nikorn said.